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authorEelco Dolstra <eelco.dolstra@logicblox.com>2012-01-18 20:16:00 +0000
committerEelco Dolstra <eelco.dolstra@logicblox.com>2012-01-18 20:16:00 +0000
commitc556a6ea46e71e1907d78b71fab36df30297b3ad (patch)
tree91a51d04a39ab4db1fb5182b56ce63cf9d9779b9
parentf7159c195a623c311829c38c40ef010ac6e943f7 (diff)
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* "ensureDir" -> "mkdir -p". "ensureDir" is a rather pointless
  function, so obsolete it.

svn path=/nixpkgs/branches/stdenv-updates/; revision=31644
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-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/security/seccure/0.4.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/security/ssss/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/system/bootchart/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/system/cron/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/system/dd_rescue/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/system/gptfdisk/default.nix4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/system/plan9port/builder.sh2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/convertlit/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/dadadodo/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/qshowdiff/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/replace/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/xml/jing/script-builder.sh2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/xml/rxp/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/text/xml/trang/builder.sh4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/typesetting/asciidoc/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/typesetting/halibut/default.nix4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/typesetting/lhs2tex/default.nix4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdfjam/builder.sh4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdftk/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-ami-tools/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-api-tools/default.nix2
-rw-r--r--pkgs/top-level/all-packages.nix4
-rw-r--r--pkgs/top-level/make-tarball.nix6
-rw-r--r--pkgs/top-level/python-packages.nix6
629 files changed, 931 insertions, 939 deletions
diff --git a/doc/stdenv.xml b/doc/stdenv.xml
index 5c77b416cc0..1ecf72351f2 100644
--- a/doc/stdenv.xml
+++ b/doc/stdenv.xml
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     gcc foo.c -o foo
   '';
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp foo $out/bin
   '';
 }</programlisting>
@@ -112,7 +112,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-  ensureDir $out/bin
+  mkdir -p $out/bin
   cp foo $out/bin
 }
 
@@ -939,14 +939,6 @@ functions.</para>
 <variablelist>
 
   
-  <varlistentry xml:id='fun-ensureDir'>
-    <term><function>ensureDir</function> <replaceable>args</replaceable></term>
-    <listitem><para>Creates the specified directories, including all
-    necessary parent directories, if they do not already
-    exist.</para></listitem>
-  </varlistentry>
-  
-
   <varlistentry xml:id='fun-substitute'>
     <term><function>substitute</function>
     <replaceable>infile</replaceable>
diff --git a/maintainers/docs/cross.txt b/maintainers/docs/cross.txt
index 5ae2787d799..32e09086b87 100644
--- a/maintainers/docs/cross.txt
+++ b/maintainers/docs/cross.txt
@@ -233,9 +233,9 @@ preConfigure() {
     fi
 
     # Cross compiler evilness
-    ensureDir $out
-    ensureDir $out/arm-linux
-    ensureDir $out/arm-linux/bin
+    mkdir -p $out
+    mkdir -p $out/arm-linux
+    mkdir -p $out/arm-linux/bin
     ln -s $binutilsArm/arm-linux/bin/as $out/arm-linux/bin/as
     ln -s $binutilsArm/arm-linux/bin/ld $out/arm-linux/bin/ld
     ln -s $binutilsArm/arm-linux/bin/ar $out/arm-linux/bin/ar
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/ardour/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/ardour/default.nix
index c9f0fb98af7..2a0caf93001 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/ardour/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/ardour/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   ];
 
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     export CXX=g++
     scons PREFIX=$out install
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/gmu/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/gmu/default.nix
index bdda1c6d8d9..e75be3e2c2b 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/gmu/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/gmu/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   postInstall = ''
     cp ${keymap}.keymap $out/share/gmu/default.keymap
     cp gmuinput.${conf}.conf $out/share/gmu/gmuinput.conf
-    ensureDir $out/etc/gmu
+    mkdir -p $out/etc/gmu
     cp gmu.${conf}.conf $out/etc/gmu/gmu.conf
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/id3v2/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/id3v2/default.nix
index 7f062b1799f..8e7f573cc84 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/id3v2/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/id3v2/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/man/man1
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/default.nix
index 1557913f401..b563c850d52 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postInstall =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/ladspa/
+      mkdir -p $out/share/ladspa/
       ln -sv $out/lib/ladspa $out/share/ladspa/lib
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/ladspah.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/ladspah.nix
index 8cd3dcc1bfb..30ba34af16c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/ladspah.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/ladspa-plugins/ladspah.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ in
   in with localDefs;
 let
   copyFile = fullDepEntry ("
-    ensureDir \$out/include
+    mkdir -p \$out/include
     cp ${src} \$out/include/ladspa.h
   ") [minInit defEnsureDir];
 in
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/mp3info/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/mp3info/default.nix
index 86ffca4242f..d5a8138a500 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/mp3info/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/mp3info/default.nix
@@ -18,8 +18,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     '';
 
   preInstall =
-    '' ensureDir "$out/bin"
-       ensureDir "$out/man/man1"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/bin"
+       mkdir -p "$out/man/man1"
     '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/mpc123/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/mpc123/default.nix
index 4ea26b458a7..ccaa428a3f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/mpc123/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/mpc123/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     # XXX: Should install locales too (though there's only 1 available).
-    '' ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/bin"
        cp -v mpc123 "$out/bin"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/snd/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/snd/default.nix
index e7957e866f1..c295767687f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/snd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/snd/default.nix
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ rec {
 
   makeDocsWork = fullDepEntry ''
                 # hackish way to make html docs work
-                h="$out/share/snd/html"; ensureDir "$h"; cp *.html "$h"
+                h="$out/share/snd/html"; mkdir -p "$h"; cp *.html "$h"
                 patch -p1 < ${./doc.patch}
                 sed "s@HTML-DIR@$h@" -i index.scm snd-help.c
             '' ["defEnsureDir"];
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/sonic-visualiser/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/sonic-visualiser/default.nix
index d3ac4c4168c..3a2beff0413 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/sonic-visualiser/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/sonic-visualiser/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,share/sonic-visualiser}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,share/sonic-visualiser}
     cp sonic-visualiser/sonic-visualiser $out/bin
     cp -r sonic-visualiser/samples $out/share/sonic-visualiser/samples
     wrapProgram $out/bin/sonic-visualiser --prefix LD_LIBRARY_PATH : ${libX11}/lib
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/vkeybd/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/vkeybd/default.nix
index b751e4da33e..279820a723f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/vkeybd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/vkeybd/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation  rec {
   buildInputs = [ alsaLib libX11 makeWrapper tcl tk ];
 
   configurePhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     sed -e "s@/usr/local@$out@" -i Makefile
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/audio/xsynth-dssi/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/audio/xsynth-dssi/default.nix
index 528f0b3412c..0cfbfb4c9bd 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/audio/xsynth-dssi/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/audio/xsynth-dssi/default.nix
@@ -14,8 +14,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation  rec {
     ladspaPlugins liblo pkgconfig ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp src/Xsynth_gtk $out/bin
     cp src/.libs/* $out/lib
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/eclipse/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/eclipse/default.nix
index bc53dfc70f3..801efc166da 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/eclipse/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/eclipse/default.nix
@@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ let
 
       buildCommand = ''
         # Unpack tarball.
-        ensureDir $out
+        mkdir -p $out
         tar xfvz $src -C $out
 
         # Patch binaries.
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ let
           --add-flags "-configuration \$HOME/.eclipse/''${productId}_$productVersion/configuration"
 
         # Create desktop item.
-        ensureDir $out/share/applications
+        mkdir -p $out/share/applications
         cp ${desktopItem}/share/applications/* $out/share/applications
       ''; # */
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/elvis/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/elvis/default.nix
index 511e284ed39..e1d2ad69b1d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/elvis/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/elvis/default.nix
@@ -15,16 +15,16 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/elvis $out/share/elvis/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/elvis $out/share/elvis/doc
     cp elvis ref elvtags elvfmt $out/bin
     cp -R data/* $out/share/elvis
     cp doc/* $out/share/elvis/doc
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
     for a in doc/*.man; do
       cp $a $out/share/man/man1/`basename $a .man`.1
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/bbdb/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/bbdb/default.nix
index 52afebc6297..ec7a3e8e600 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/bbdb/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/bbdb/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   buildInputs = [emacs texinfo ctags];
   configureFlags = "--with-package-dir=$$out/share/emacs/site-lisp";
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/info";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/info";
   installTargets = "install-pkg texinfo";
   postInstall = ''
     mv  $out/info $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/cedet/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/cedet/default.nix
index 6a91ac49651..46381dfc648 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/cedet/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/cedet/default.nix
@@ -14,11 +14,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   checkPhase = "make utest";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp -v */*.el */*/*.el */*.elc */*/*.elc "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     chmod a-x "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/"*
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
     cp -v */*.info* */*/*.info* "$out/share/info"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/ecb/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/ecb/default.nix
index 258c13b8eb7..f94d594519c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/ecb/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/ecb/default.nix
@@ -21,10 +21,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp -rv *.el *.elc ecb-images "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
     cp -v info-help/*.info* "$out/share/info"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/emms/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/emms/default.nix
index 3a977031436..5439ba9e4d6 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/emms/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/emms/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
                           s|/usr/include/taglib|${taglib}/include/taglib|g ;
                           s|/usr/lib|${taglib}/lib|g ;
                           s|^all:\(.*\)\$|all:\1 emms-print-metadata|g"
-    ensureDir "$out/share/man/man1"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man1"
 
     sed -i "emms-player-mpg321-remote.el" \
         -e 's|emms-player-mpg321-remote-command[[:blank:]]\+"mpg321"|emms-player-mpg321-remote-command "${mpg321}/bin/mpg321"|g'
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin" && cp emms-print-metadata "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin" && cp emms-print-metadata "$out/bin"
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/haskell/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/haskell/default.nix
index 5813fde815f..b73d91b611c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/haskell/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/haskell/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [emacs];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp *.el *.elc *.hs "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/hol_light/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/hol_light/default.nix
index 9dba1d599ff..24eba20be6c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/hol_light/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/hol_light/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase = ''
     DEST=$out/share/emacs/site-lisp
-    ensureDir $DEST
+    mkdir -p $DEST
     cp -a * $DEST
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/jdee/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/jdee/default.nix
index 2d93e782048..02f60d0d698 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/jdee/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/jdee/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ in
     ];
 
     configurePhase = ''
-      ensureDir "dist"
+      mkdir -p "dist"
       cat > build.properties <<EOF
         dist.lisp.dir = dist/share/emacs/site-lisp
         dist.java.lib.dir = dist/lib/java
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ in
     installPhase = ''
       ant install
 
-      ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
       cp -rv java/bsh-commands "$out/share/${name}"
 
       # Move everything that's not a JAR to $datadir.  This includes
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/org/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/org/default.nix
index 18ea2797bec..f0a51987937 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/org/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/org/default.nix
@@ -29,10 +29,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   installPhase =
     '' make install install-info
 
-       ensureDir "$out/share/doc/${name}"
+       mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/${name}"
        cp -v doc/org*.{html,pdf,txt} "$out/share/doc/${name}"
 
-       ensureDir "$out/share/org"
+       mkdir -p "$out/share/org"
        cp -R contrib "$out/share/org/contrib"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/quack/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/quack/default.nix
index 317f121f364..86371890db1 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/quack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/quack/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = ''
     emacsDir="$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
 
-    ensureDir "$emacsDir"
+    mkdir -p "$emacsDir"
     cp -v "$src" "$emacsDir/quack.el"
     emacs --batch -f batch-byte-compile "$emacsDir/quack.el"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/rudel/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/rudel/default.nix
index 9bb7870fb5a..787f5df6eb0 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/rudel/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/rudel/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation
 
   installPhase = ''
     for n in . obby zeroconf jupiter; do
-      ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/$n";
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/$n";
       cp $n/*.el "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/$n/";
     done
     install -D -m444 doc/card.pdf "$out/share/doc/rudel/card.pdf"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/scala-mode/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/scala-mode/default.nix
index 3b6361b9ef7..71a2993aba8 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/scala-mode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/scala-mode/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ emacs ];
 
   installPhase =
-    '' ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
        cp -v *.el *.elc "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/session-management-for-emacs/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/session-management-for-emacs/default.nix
index c78d40bcb5f..08fb64002a0 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/session-management-for-emacs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/emacs-modes/session-management-for-emacs/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [emacs];
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp lisp/*.el "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp/"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/default.nix
index 5349f10c0c3..194f13a090c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/default.nix
@@ -17,19 +17,19 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/jEdit
+    mkdir -p $out/share/jEdit
     cp build/jedit.jar $out/share/jEdit
-    ensureDir $out/share/jEdit/modes
+    mkdir -p $out/share/jEdit/modes
     cp -r modes/* $out/share/jEdit/modes
-    ensureDir $out/share/jEdit/icons
+    mkdir -p $out/share/jEdit/icons
     cp -r icons/* $out/share/jEdit/icons
-    ensureDir $out/share/jEdit/macros
+    mkdir -p $out/share/jEdit/macros
     cp -r macros/* $out/share/jEdit/macros
-    ensureDir $out/share/jEdit/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/share/jEdit/doc
     cp -r doc/* $out/share/jEdit/doc
     
     sed -i "s|Icon=.*|Icon=$out/share/jEdit/icons/jedit-icon48.png|g" package-files/linux/deb/jedit.desktop
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     mv package-files/linux/deb/jedit.desktop $out/share/applications/jedit.desktop
 
     patch package-files/linux/jedit << EOF
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     > 
     EOF
     sed -i "s|/usr/share/jEdit/@jar.filename@|$out/share/jEdit/jedit.jar|g" package-files/linux/jedit
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp package-files/linux/jedit $out/bin/jedit
     chmod +x $out/bin/jedit
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/wrapper.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/wrapper.nix
index 8af3d96918d..1126a7278d6 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/wrapper.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/jedit/wrapper.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     phases = "buildPhase";
 
     buildPhase = "
-ensureDir \$out/bin
+mkdir -p \$out/bin
 cat > \$out/bin/${jedit.name} << EOF
 #!/bin/sh
 exec $java -jar $jeditjar \\$*
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/nedit/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/editors/nedit/builder.sh
index 51b5f183654..15706b0c37d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/nedit/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/nedit/builder.sh
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 export NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE="-DBUILD_UNTESTED_NEDIT -L$motif/lib $NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE"
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp -p source/nedit source/nc $out/bin
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/editors/nvi/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/editors/nvi/default.nix
index c759f977b0d..81e0dd35db9 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/editors/nvi/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/editors/nvi/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/vi/catalog
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/vi/catalog
     for a in dutch english french german ru_SU.KOI8-R spanish swedish; do
       cp ../catalog/$a $out/share/vi/catalog
     done
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ln -s $out/bin/nvi $out/bin/ex
     ln -s $out/bin/nvi $out/bin/view
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
     cp ../docs/USD.doc/vi.man/vi.1 $out/share/man/man1/nvi.1
     ln -s $out/share/man/man1/nvi.1 $out/share/man/man1/vi
     ln -s $out/share/man/man1/nvi.1 $out/share/man/man1/ex
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/gimp/plugins/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/gimp/plugins/default.nix
index 3c900ca1eba..b80d27bfcf9 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/gimp/plugins/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/gimp/plugins/default.nix
@@ -15,11 +15,11 @@ let
     prePhases = "extraLib";
     extraLib = ''
       installScripts(){
-        ensureDir ${targetScriptDir};
+        mkdir -p ${targetScriptDir};
         for p in "$@"; do cp "$p" ${targetScriptDir}; done
       }
       installPlugins(){
-        ensureDir ${targetPluginDir};
+        mkdir -p ${targetPluginDir};
         for p in "$@"; do cp "$p" ${targetPluginDir}; done
       }
     '';
@@ -137,7 +137,7 @@ rec {
       url = http://registry.gimp.org/files/gimp-lqr-plugin-0.6.1.tar.bz2;
       sha256 = "00hklkpcimcbpjly4rjhfipaw096cpy768g9wixglwrsyqhil7l9";
     };
-    #postInstall = ''ensureDir $out/nix-support; echo "${libLQR}" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-user-env-packages"'';
+    #postInstall = ''mkdir -p $out/nix-support; echo "${libLQR}" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-user-env-packages"'';
     installPhase = "installPlugins src/gimp-lqr-plugin";
   };
 
@@ -190,7 +190,7 @@ rec {
     };
     installPhase = "
       installPlugins ufraw-gimp
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       cp ufraw $out/bin
     ";
   };
@@ -209,7 +209,7 @@ rec {
 
     installPhase = "
       installPlugins gimplensfun
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       cp gimplensfun $out/bin
     ";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/hugin/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/hugin/default.nix
index 795417dbf5b..2557f0f82e5 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/hugin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/hugin/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     exiv2 gettext ilmbase mesa freeglut glew libXmu libXi ];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
     echo "${enblendenfuse} ${autopanosiftc}" > $out/nix-support/propagated-user-env-packages
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/jbrout/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/jbrout/default.nix
index 7c3826369ee..dc397a614d3 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/jbrout/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/jbrout/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ buildPythonPackage {
   '';
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     echo '#!/bin/sh' > $out/bin/jbrout
     echo "python $out/lib/python2.7/site-packages/jbrout-src-py2.7.egg/jbrout/jbrout.py" >> $out/bin/jbrout
     chmod +x $out/bin/jbrout
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/meshlab/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/meshlab/default.nix
index 8ddaf9bc279..9b39d8e8f1f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/meshlab/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/meshlab/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/opt/meshlab $out/bin $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/opt/meshlab $out/bin $out/lib
     pushd distrib
     cp -R * $out/opt/meshlab
     popd
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/minidjvu/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/minidjvu/default.nix
index 8f7ba792914..e3c6deddb29 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/minidjvu/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/minidjvu/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ libtiff gettext];
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/pinta/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/pinta/default.nix
index 12f01adc830..349982bc24c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/pinta/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/pinta/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   # Very ugly - I don't know enough Mono to improve this. Isn't there any rpath in binaries?
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/pinta $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/pinta $out/bin
     cp bin/*.{dll,exe} $out/lib/pinta
     cat > $out/bin/pinta << EOF
     #!/bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/rawtherapee/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/rawtherapee/default.nix
index eda187cbf23..4b61ac740cb 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/rawtherapee/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/rawtherapee/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   cmakeFlags = [ "-DWITH_RAWZOR=OFF" ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib
     cp rtgui/rt $out/bin
     # Weird kind of path reference
     cp -r ../release/* $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/wings/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/wings/default.nix
index b40a7251283..6d39c7f2a95 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/wings/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/wings/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ erlang esdl ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib/${name}/ebin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib/${name}/ebin
     cp ebin/* $out/lib/${name}/ebin
     cp -R fonts textures shaders plugins $out/lib/$name
     cat << EOF > $out/bin/wings
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/graphics/xaos/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/graphics/xaos/default.nix
index a746eb86b94..307c9477929 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/graphics/xaos/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/graphics/xaos/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ rec {
 
   preConfigure = a.fullDepEntry (''
     sed -e s@/usr/@"$out/"@g -i configure $(find . -name 'Makefile*')
-    ensureDir $out/share/locale
+    mkdir -p $out/share/locale
   '') ["doUnpack" "minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
       
   name = "xaos-" + version;
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/adobe-reader/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/misc/adobe-reader/builder.sh
index cd4bebfe9ad..1f4844a22c4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/adobe-reader/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/adobe-reader/builder.sh
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 echo "unpacking $src..."
 tar xvfa $src
 
-ensureDir $out/Adobe/Reader9
+mkdir -p $out/Adobe/Reader9
 
 echo "unpacking reader..."
 set +e
@@ -24,5 +24,5 @@ substituteInPlace $out/Adobe/Reader*/bin/acroread \
     --replace /bin/ls $(type -P ls) \
     --replace xargs "xargs -r"
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 ln -s $out/Adobe/Reader*/bin/acroread $out/bin/acroread
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/audio/wavesurfer/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/audio/wavesurfer/default.nix
index ab22312e903..caaa5133c75 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/audio/wavesurfer/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/audio/wavesurfer/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ snack tcl tk makeWrapper ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,nix-support,share/wavesurfer/}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,nix-support,share/wavesurfer/}
     mv doc $out/share/wavesurfer
     mv * $out/nix-support
     ln -s $out/{nix-support,bin}/wavesurfer.tcl
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/bitcoin/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/bitcoin/default.nix
index d56ebe6b17f..de74cd6abd9 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/bitcoin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/bitcoin/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp bitcoin-qt $out/bin
     cp src/bitcoind $out/bin
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/blender/2.49.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/blender/2.49.nix
index 6a66c45b94f..b27f60e9bff 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/blender/2.49.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/blender/2.49.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE = "-iquote ${ilmbase}/include/OpenEXR -I${python}/include/${python.libPrefix} -I${freetype}/include/freetype2";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp bin/* $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/freemind/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/freemind/default.nix
index 24071d3c683..f67138e66a7 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/freemind/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/freemind/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # JDK 7 beta seems to have fixed this (bug ?)
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,nix-support}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,nix-support}
     cp -r ../bin/dist $out/nix-support
     sed -i 's/which/type -p/' $out/nix-support/dist/freemind.sh
     cat > $out/bin/freemind << EOF
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/get_iplayer/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/get_iplayer/default.nix
index 1a0453797cc..0e222366729 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/get_iplayer/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/get_iplayer/default.nix
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [makeWrapper perl];
 
   installPhase = '' 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp get_iplayer $out/bin
     wrapProgram $out/bin/get_iplayer --suffix PATH ${ffmpeg}/bin:${flvstreamer}/bin
   '';  
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/googleearth/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/googleearth/default.nix
index aa4807a34f5..8da4e9de8fd 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/googleearth/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/googleearth/default.nix
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   
   installPhase =''
-    ensureDir $out/{opt/googleearth/,bin};
+    mkdir -p $out/{opt/googleearth/,bin};
     tar xf googleearth-data.tar -C $out/opt/googleearth
     tar xf googleearth-linux-x86.tar -C $out/opt/googleearth
     cp bin/googleearth $out/opt/googleearth
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/jbidwatcher/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/jbidwatcher/default.nix
index 56c547ce435..70cd5d3faf4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/jbidwatcher/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/jbidwatcher/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     echo > "$out/bin/${pname}" "#!/bin/sh"
     echo >>"$out/bin/${pname}" "${java}/bin/java -Xmx512m -jar ${jarfile}"
     chmod +x "$out/bin/${pname}"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/makeself/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/makeself/default.nix
index 08edc32e87e..9ea5f18ee62 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/makeself/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/makeself/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   unpackPhase = "sh ${src}";
   installPhase = ''
     cd ${name}
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,share/{${name},man/man1}}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,share/{${name},man/man1}}
     mv makeself.lsm README $out/share/${name}
     mv makeself.sh $out/bin/makeself
     mv makeself.1  $out/share/man/man1/
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/navipowm/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/navipowm/default.nix
index e308ebe0477..a526774d48e 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/navipowm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/navipowm/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/${name}/Icons
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/${name}/Icons
     cp bin/NaviPOWM $out/bin
     cp ../../common/Config/navipowm.ini $out/share/${name}
     cp ../../common/Images/* $out/share/${name}
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/openjump/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/openjump/default.nix
index 3b42f0f3322..74f657ee02a 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/openjump/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/openjump/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # error. Still this is better than getting it always.
   # TODO: build from source and patch this
   unpackPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin;
+    mkdir -p $out/bin;
     cd $out; unzip $src
     s=$out/bin/OpenJump
     dir=$(echo $out/openjump-*)
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/procmail/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/procmail/default.nix
index 15bcc477bdd..7b25f9fc5c7 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/procmail/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/procmail/default.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   # getline is defined differently in glibc now. So rename it.
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir \$out/bin
+    mkdir -p \$out/bin
     sed -e \"s%^RM.*$%RM=`type -f rm | awk '{print $3;}'` -f%\" -i Makefile
     sed -e \"s%^BASENAME.*%\BASENAME=$out%\" -i Makefile
     sed -e \"s%^LIBS=.*%LIBS=-lm%\" -i Makefile
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/pstree/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/pstree/default.nix
index 67d3f32d53f..6f5c775cfb3 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/pstree/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/pstree/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   unpackPhase = "unpackFile \$src; sourceRoot=.";
 
   buildPhase = "pwd; gcc -o pstree pstree.c";
-  installPhase = "ensureDir \$out/bin; cp pstree \$out/bin";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p \$out/bin; cp pstree \$out/bin";
 
   meta = {
     description = "Show the set of running processes as a tree";
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/qcad/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/qcad/default.nix
index 233ee0e6551..ee8876e6b33 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/qcad/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/qcad/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   # probably there is more to be done. But this seems to work for now (eg see gentoo ebuild)
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,share}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,share}
     cp -r qcad $out/share
 
     # The compilation does not fail with error code. But qcad will not exist
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/rxvt_unicode/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/rxvt_unicode/default.nix
index 89bce3ff99f..aa8b1b2b29f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/rxvt_unicode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/rxvt_unicode/default.nix
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
     ''
     # make urxvt find its perl file lib/perl5/site_perl is added to PERL5LIB automatically
     + stdenv.lib.optionalString perlSupport ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/perl5
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/perl5
       ln -s $out/{lib/urxvt,lib/perl5/site_perl}
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/sbagen/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/sbagen/default.nix
index c14f6080b8c..495f37de2f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/sbagen/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/sbagen/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "./mk";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,share/sbagen/doc}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,share/sbagen/doc}
     cp -r --target-directory=$out/share/sbagen examples scripts river1.ogg river2.ogg
     cp sbagen $out/bin
     cp --target-directory=$out/share/sbagen/doc README.txt SBAGEN.txt theory{,2}.txt {wave,holosync,focus,TODO}.txt
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/thinking-rock/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/thinking-rock/default.nix
index 2faed53b7a5..7b55f39c119 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/thinking-rock/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/thinking-rock/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     ls -1 bin/* | grep -ve  'bin/tr''$' | xargs rm
     # don't keep the other .exe file either
     find . -iname "*.exe" | xargs -n1 rm
-    ensureDir $out/{nix-support/tr-files,bin}
+    mkdir -p $out/{nix-support/tr-files,bin}
     cp -r . $out/nix-support/tr-files
     cat >> $out/bin/thinkingrock << EOF
     #!/bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/vue/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/vue/default.nix
index 3f536ec21c1..8caa86a71cb 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/vue/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/vue/default.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ rec {
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
     unzip ${src}
-    ensureDir "$out"/{share/vue,bin}
+    mkdir -p "$out"/{share/vue,bin}
     cp VUE.jar "$out/share/vue/vue.jar"
     echo '#!${a.stdenv.shell}' >> "$out/bin/vue" 
     echo '${a.jre}/bin/java -jar "'"$out/share/vue/vue.jar"'" "$@"' >> "$out/bin/vue" 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/misc/xpdf/libxpdf.nix b/pkgs/applications/misc/xpdf/libxpdf.nix
index 589fbf49786..7987d26946d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/misc/xpdf/libxpdf.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/misc/xpdf/libxpdf.nix
@@ -31,10 +31,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/goo
-    ensureDir $out/lib/fofi
-    ensureDir $out/lib/xpdf
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/goo
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/fofi
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/xpdf
+    mkdir -p $out/include
 
     cp -v goo/libGoo.a $out/lib/goo
     cp -v fofi/libfofi.a $out/lib/fofi
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/chromium/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/chromium/default.nix
index 0be1d4dc48d..66c0f039403 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/chromium/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/chromium/default.nix
@@ -42,8 +42,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
        ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/libexec/chrome
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/libexec/chrome
 
     cp -R * $out/libexec/chrome
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/firefox/wrapper.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/firefox/wrapper.nix
index b6ec69ee388..1b8fb796bad 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/firefox/wrapper.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/firefox/wrapper.nix
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
         --suffix-each LD_LIBRARY_PATH ':' "$libs" \
         --prefix-contents PATH ':' "$(filterExisting $(addSuffix /extra-bin-path $plugins))"
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     cp $desktopItem/share/applications/* $out/share/applications
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/icecat-3/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/icecat-3/default.nix
index 99f135c6d7b..7fc5ddbcce5 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/icecat-3/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/icecat-3/default.nix
@@ -84,7 +84,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     fi
 
     # Put the GNU IceCat icon in the right place.
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/$libDir/chrome/icons/default"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/$libDir/chrome/icons/default"
     ln -s ../../../icons/default.xpm  "$out/lib/$libDir/chrome/icons/default/"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-10/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-10/builder.sh
index 4db487f5c51..b0f8a2638c1 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-10/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-10/builder.sh
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ unpackPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     cp -pv libflashplayer.so $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     patchelf --set-rpath "$rpath" $out/lib/mozilla/plugins/libflashplayer.so
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-11/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-11/builder.sh
index 4db487f5c51..b0f8a2638c1 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-11/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-11/builder.sh
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ unpackPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     cp -pv libflashplayer.so $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     patchelf --set-rpath "$rpath" $out/lib/mozilla/plugins/libflashplayer.so
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-9/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-9/builder.sh
index 0f738eb9ccc..86ecd2c3345 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-9/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/flashplayer-9/builder.sh
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ dontPatchELF=1
 sourceRoot=.
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     cp -p libflashplayer.so $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     patchelf --set-rpath $rpath $out/lib/mozilla/plugins/libflashplayer.so
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mozplugger/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mozplugger/default.nix
index 890021b33d6..37d5cbe039f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mozplugger/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mozplugger/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["doUnpack" "minInit"];
 
   postInstall = a.fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}/plugin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}/plugin
     ln -s $out/lib/mozilla/plugins/mozplugger.so $out/share/${name}/plugin
   '') ["doMakeInstall" "minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mplayerplug-in/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mplayerplug-in/default.nix
index 330fac09862..6ee1735f76c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mplayerplug-in/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/browsers/mozilla-plugins/mplayerplug-in/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ pkgconfig browser (browser.gtk) libXpm gettext ];
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
     cp -p mplayerplug-in*.so mplayerplug-in*.xpt $out/lib/mozilla/plugins
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.4.2.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.4.2.nix
index 7728f7abcfc..6a86774226d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.4.2.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.4.2.nix
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ rec {
   };
 } // (if externalPurple2 then {
   postInstall = fullDepEntry (''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/purple-2
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/purple-2
       cp ${args.purple2Source}/lib/purple-2/* $out/lib/purple-2/
     '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"]; }
   else {})
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.5.0.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.5.0.nix
index 0428ccdc7f3..58f65a2709e 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.5.0.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/carrier/2.5.0.nix
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ rec {
   };
 } // (if externalPurple2 then {
   postInstall = fullDepEntry (''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/purple-2
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/purple-2
       cp ${args.purple2Source}/lib/purple-2/* $out/lib/purple-2/
     '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"]; }
   else {})
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/oneteam/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/oneteam/default.nix
index 37f56a63806..026ab3fff1c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/oneteam/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/oneteam/default.nix
@@ -59,14 +59,14 @@ rec {
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
     TARGET_DIR="$out/share/oneteam/app"
     BUILD_DIR="$PWD"
-    ensureDir "$TARGET_DIR"
+    mkdir -p "$TARGET_DIR"
     cd "$TARGET_DIR"
     unzip "$BUILD_DIR/oneteam.xulapp"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     echo "#! ${a.stdenv.shell}" > "$out/bin/oneteam"
     echo "\"${xulrunner}/bin/xulrunner\" \"$TARGET_DIR/application.ini\"" > "$out/bin/oneteam"
     chmod a+x "$out/bin/oneteam"
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc"
     cp -r "$BUILD_DIR/docs" "$out/share/doc/oneteam"
   '' ["defEnsureDir"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/msn-pecan/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/msn-pecan/default.nix
index 5e5cf311712..cdbf63dbd9f 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/msn-pecan/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/msn-pecan/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   makeFlags = "PURPLE_LIBDIR=lib PURPLE_DATADIR=share/data DESTDIR=$$out";
-  preInstall = "ensureDir \$out/share";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p \$out/share";
   postInstall = "ln -s \$out/lib/purple-2 \$out/share/pidgin-msn-pecan";
 
   buildInputs = [pidgin];
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/pidgin-latex/pidgin-latex-sf.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/pidgin-latex/pidgin-latex-sf.nix
index cc6901c0384..868b5dbb342 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/pidgin-latex/pidgin-latex-sf.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/pidgin-plugins/pidgin-latex/pidgin-latex-sf.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ rec {
   ];
 
   preBuild = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ln -s $(which convert) $out/bin
     ln -s $(which xelatex) $out/bin
     ln -s $(which dvips) $out/bin
@@ -26,8 +26,8 @@ rec {
   '') ["minInit" "addInputs" "defEnsureDir" "doUnpack"];
 
   postInstall = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
-    ensureDir $out/share/pidgin-latex
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/share/pidgin-latex
     ln -s ../../lib/pidgin/LaTeX.so  $out/share/pidgin-latex 
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir" "doMakeInstall"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/default.nix
index b0819da4c6e..7d04d9e9fec 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/default.nix
@@ -27,10 +27,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postInstall = ''
     PSI_PLUGINS="$out/lib/psi/plugins"
-    ensureDir "$PSI_PLUGINS"
+    mkdir -p "$PSI_PLUGINS"
     ln -s "${psiMedia}"/share/psi/plugins/*.so "$PSI_PLUGINS"
     PSI_QT_PLUGINS="$out/share/psi"
-    ensureDir "$PSI_QT_PLUGINS"/crypto
+    mkdir -p "$PSI_QT_PLUGINS"/crypto
     ln -s "${qca2_ossl}"/lib/qt4/plugins/crypto/*.so "$PSI_QT_PLUGINS"/crypto
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/psimedia.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/psimedia.nix
index 5f6112b53d0..4574b5a9b35 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/psimedia.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/psi/psimedia.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postBuild = ''
     TARGET="$out/share/psi/plugins"
-    ensureDir "$TARGET"
+    mkdir -p "$TARGET"
     cp gstprovider/*.so "$TARGET"/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/torchat/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/torchat/default.nix
index 440ab624a62..5a82cf9d640 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/torchat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/instant-messengers/torchat/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
     wrapPythonPrograms
 
-    ensureDir $out/lib/torchat
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/torchat
     cp -rf * $out/lib/torchat
     makeWrapper ${python}/bin/python $out/bin/torchat \
         --set PYTHONPATH $out/lib/torchat:$program_PYTHONPATH \
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/iptraf/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/iptraf/default.nix
index ce9e84fd572..8ddf784adc0 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/iptraf/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/iptraf/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   preConfigure = "cd src";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp iptraf $out/bin
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/mailreaders/thunderbird/9.x.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/mailreaders/thunderbird/9.x.nix
index 62b4d91de58..717d4012645 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/mailreaders/thunderbird/9.x.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/mailreaders/thunderbird/9.x.nix
@@ -90,7 +90,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
           --replace /bin/ls "$(type -tP ls)"
 
       # Create a desktop item.
-      ensureDir $out/share/applications
+      mkdir -p $out/share/applications
       cat > $out/share/applications/thunderbird.desktop <<EOF
       [Desktop Entry]
       Type=Application
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/mumble/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/mumble/default.nix
index 5c9e215f876..e736d561cb4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/mumble/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/mumble/default.nix
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ++ (stdenv.lib.optional jackSupport jackaudio);
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -r ./release $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/offrss/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/offrss/default.nix
index 9784d369271..ea994c889e2 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/offrss/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/offrss/default.nix
@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   name = "offrss-1.1";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp offrss $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/ldcpp/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/ldcpp/default.nix
index f189d2eb781..1b601992aa6 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/ldcpp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/ldcpp/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ with builderDefs;
       openssl libX11 boost];
     configureFlags = [];
     doScons = fullDepEntry (''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       export NIX_LDFLAGS="$NIX_LDFLAGS -lX11";
       
       for i in gettext xgettext msgfmt msgcat; do
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/mldonkey/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/mldonkey/default.nix
index 98abc0a3db7..145414e5c3d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/mldonkey/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/p2p/mldonkey/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
   # Byte code compilation (the ocaml opt compiler is not supported in many platforms)
   buildPhase = "make mlnet.byte";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp mlnet.byte $out/bin/mlnet
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/pjsip/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/pjsip/default.nix
index 14bc1ead49b..2dc909ca915 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/pjsip/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/pjsip/default.nix
@@ -11,9 +11,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ openssl libsamplerate ];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp pjsip-apps/bin/pjsua-* $out/bin/pjsua
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}/samples
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}/samples
     cp pjsip-apps/bin/samples/*/* $out/share/${name}/samples
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/skype/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/skype/default.nix
index 8d3645e3819..1eef323ae05 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/skype/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/skype/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   phases = "unpackPhase installPhase";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{opt/skype/,bin}
+    mkdir -p $out/{opt/skype/,bin}
     cp -r * $out/opt/skype/
 
     fullPath=
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ---
     > Icon=$out/opt/skype/icons/SkypeBlue_48x48.png
     EOF
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     mv skype.desktop $out/share/applications
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/sync/unison/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/sync/unison/default.nix
index 06bab807ebd..e3b042aa810 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/sync/unison/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/sync/unison/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
   makeFlags = "INSTALLDIR=$(out)/bin/" + (if enableX11 then " UISTYLE=gtk2" else "")
     + (if ! nativeCode then " NATIVE=false" else "");
 
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/bin";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/bin";
 
   postInstall = if enableX11 then ''
     for i in $(cd $out/bin && ls); do
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/networking/vnstat/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/networking/vnstat/default.nix
index b20f862842c..69a0a7efde8 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/networking/vnstat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/networking/vnstat/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,sbin} $out/share/man/{man1,man5}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,sbin} $out/share/man/{man1,man5}
     cp src/vnstat $out/bin
     cp src/vnstatd $out/sbin
     cp man/vnstat.1 man/vnstatd.1 $out/share/man/man1
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/office/impressive/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/office/impressive/default.nix
index aa09b48ab27..f1de422fa24 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/office/impressive/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/office/impressive/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ in
     '';
 
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir "$out/bin" "$out/share/doc/impressive"
+      mkdir -p "$out/bin" "$out/share/doc/impressive"
       mv impressive.py "$out/bin/impressive"
       mv * "$out/share/doc/impressive"
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/office/mmex/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/office/mmex/default.nix
index 1e7aa756471..d56f4bed0ce 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/office/mmex/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/office/mmex/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ in
     '';
 
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir $out/opt/mmex
+      mkdir -p $out/opt/mmex
       cp -r mmex runtime/{*.txt,*.png,*.db3,en,help,*.wav,*.ico} $out/opt/mmex
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/builder.sh
index 131e85de5bf..2c6e04e049b 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/builder.sh
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ installPhase() {
 	-f openoffice.lst -l en-US -p OpenOffice \
 	-buildid $BUILD -simple $ooFiles)
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for i in soffice ooffice; do wrapSOffice $i; done
     
     # Create some wrappers to start individual OpenOffice components.
@@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ installPhase() {
     
     # Create symlinks to desktop files, so that openoffice.org apps can be picked from
     # the application menu in KDE and GNOME
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     ln -s $out/lib/openoffice/openoffice.org3/share/xdg $out/share/applications
 
     # Apply a minor correction to the *.desktop files in order to correctly address the icons
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/get-go-src.nix b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/get-go-src.nix
index ebdb586bd47..439da366381 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/get-go-src.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/get-go-src.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ lib.overrideDerivation go_oo (attrs: {
 
   makesh = ''
     sed -i -e '/-x $WG/d' -e "s/WGET='''/WGET='echo XXX'/" download
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
 
     set +e
     ./download --all | grep XXX | 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/go-oo.nix b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/go-oo.nix
index 241c2ff2a13..59cd517b55c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/go-oo.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/office/openoffice/go-oo.nix
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     bin/ooinstall $out
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for a in $out/program/{sbase,scalc,sdraw,simpress,smath,soffice,swriter,soffice.bin}; do
       ln -s $a $out/bin
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/arb/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/arb/default.nix
index 4543fce4816..1b4563555c4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/arb/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/arb/default.nix
@@ -33,22 +33,22 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     shareddir=/nix/var/lib/arb
     # link out writable shared location lib/pts
-    ensureDir $shareddir/lib/pts
+    mkdir -p $shareddir/lib/pts
     cp -vau lib/pts $shareddir/lib
     rm -vrf lib/pts
     ln -vs $shareddir/lib/pts $out/lib/pts
     chmod a+rwx $shareddir/lib/pts
     # link out writable shared location lib/nas/
-    ensureDir $shareddir/lib/nas
+    mkdir -p $shareddir/lib/nas
     cp -vau lib/nas $shareddir/lib
     rm -vrf lib/nas
     ln -vs $shareddir/lib/nas $out/lib/nas
     chmod a+rwx $shareddir/lib/nas
     # link out shared lib/pixmaps (not sure about this, yet):
-    ensureDir $shareddir/lib/pixmaps
+    mkdir -p $shareddir/lib/pixmaps
     cp -vau lib/pixmaps $shareddir/lib
     rm -vrf lib/pixmaps
     ln -vs $shareddir/lib/pixmaps $out/lib/pixmaps
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/pal2nal/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/pal2nal/default.nix
index ff9e35d9216..956f8b07e98 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/pal2nal/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/pal2nal/default.nix
@@ -8,11 +8,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
 
     cp -v pal2nal.pl $out/bin 
 
-    ensureDir $out/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/doc
 
     cp -v README $out/doc
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/slr/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/slr/default.nix
index 981cf2a6703..629c10aecdf 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/biology/slr/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/biology/slr/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     make -fMakefile.linux
   '';
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp -v ../Slr $out/bin 
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/geometry/tetgen/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/geometry/tetgen/default.nix
index a5c3466d57b..a43ec3b0eb9 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/geometry/tetgen/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/geometry/tetgen/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tetgen $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol/default.nix
index 63040b7fdd5..5552fadc555 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [polyml];
 
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/src"
+    mkdir -p "$out/src"
     cd  "$out/src"
 
     tar -xzf "$src"
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     
     bin/build -expk -symlink
 
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     ln -st $out/bin  $out/src/hol/bin/*
     # ln -s $out/src/hol/bin $out/bin
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol_light/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol_light/default.nix
index 4961bbeabfd..0e688e71a2e 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol_light/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/hol_light/default.nix
@@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/hol_light" "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/hol_light" "$out/bin"
     cp -a  . $out/lib/hol_light
     echo "${start_script}" > "$out/bin/hol_light"
     chmod a+x "$out/bin/hol_light"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/iprover/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/iprover/default.nix
index 7bfd8dff12e..91d8c122a8d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/iprover/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/iprover/default.nix
@@ -30,10 +30,10 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doConfigure" "doMake" "doDeploy"];
   configureCommand = "sh configure";
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp iproveropt "$out/bin"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
     cp *.p "$out/share/${name}"
     echo -e "#! /bin/sh\\n$out/bin/iproveropt --clausifier \"${eprover}/bin/eprover\" --clausifier_options \" --tstp-format --silent --cnf \" \"\$@\"" > "$out"/bin/iprover
     chmod a+x  "$out"/bin/iprover
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/isabelle/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/isabelle/default.nix
index 7cfe5f92736..4a268cac645 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/isabelle/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/isabelle/default.nix
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     mv $TMP/$name $out
     cd $out/$name
     bin/isabelle install -p $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/leo2/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/leo2/default.nix
index 04ab9a5b5ab..6b17d7e8f50 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/leo2/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/leo2/default.nix
@@ -29,17 +29,17 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["makeInstallationDir" "doUnpack" "doMake" "doFinalize"];
 
   makeInstallationDir = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/leo2/build-dir"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/leo2/build-dir"
     cd "$out/share/leo2/build-dir"
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   goSrcDir = "cd src/";
 
   doFinalize = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     echo -e "#! /bin/sh\\n$PWD/../bin/leo --atprc $out/etc/leoatprc \"\$@\"\\n" > "$out/bin/leo"
     chmod a+x "$out/bin/leo"
-    ensureDir "$out/etc"
+    mkdir -p "$out/etc"
     echo -e "e = ${eprover}/bin/eprover\\nepclextract = ${eprover}/bin/epclextract" > "$out/etc/leoatprc"
   '') ["minInit" "doMake" "defEnsureDir"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/matita/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/matita/default.nix
index 92e9479d9a4..0713ff09e92 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/matita/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/matita/default.nix
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ln -vs $RTDIR/matita $RTDIR/matitac $RTDIR/matitaclean $RTDIR/matitadep $RTDIR/matitawiki $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/minisat/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/minisat/default.nix
index 34a6bd7ceff..1f29b3aa1a1 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/minisat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/minisat/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["setVars" "doMake" "doDeploy"];
   goSrcDir = "cd simp";
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out"/bin
+    mkdir -p "$out"/bin
     cp minisat_static "$out/bin"/minisat
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
   makeFlags = ["rs"];
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/picosat/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/picosat/default.nix
index 5a92c103961..970daf739fc 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/picosat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/picosat/default.nix
@@ -22,13 +22,13 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-   ensureDir "$out"/bin
+   mkdir -p "$out"/bin
    cp picomus "$out"/bin
    cp picosat "$out"/bin
-   ensureDir "$out"/lib
+   mkdir -p "$out"/lib
    cp libpicosat.a "$out"/lib
    cp libpicosat.so "$out"/lib
-   ensureDir "$out"/include/picosat
+   mkdir -p "$out"/include/picosat
    cp picosat.h "$out"/include/picosat
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/prover9/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/prover9/default.nix
index 129abef0b3d..7ac3831f6a5 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/prover9/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/prover9/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildFlags = "all";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp bin/* $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/satallax/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/satallax/default.nix
index 4bf6e53737e..2126a4d76d6 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/satallax/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/satallax/default.nix
@@ -34,21 +34,21 @@ rec {
       make
     )
 
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp minisat/simp/minisat "$out/bin"
 
     echo "(setq *minisat-binary* \"$out/bin/minisat\")" > config.lisp
 
   '') ["defEnsureDir" "minInit" "addInputs" "doUnpack"];
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/satallax/build-dir"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/satallax/build-dir"
     cp -r * "$out/share/satallax/build-dir"
     cd  "$out/share/satallax/build-dir"
 
     sbcl --load make.lisp
     ! ( ./test | grep ERROR )
     
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp bin/satallax "$out/bin"
   '') ["defEnsureDir" "minInit" "addInputs" "doUnpack"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/ssreflect/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/ssreflect/default.nix
index 5a51fe2136a..8443974a0a0 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/ssreflect/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/ssreflect/default.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase = ''
     COQLIB=$out/lib/coq make -f Makefile.coq install -e
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/tptp/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/tptp/default.nix
index 3211b6ebdc0..11b8f7ce535 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/logic/tptp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/logic/tptp/default.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ rec {
     "patchBinaries" "makeLinks"];
 
   goTarget = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out"/share/
+    mkdir -p "$out"/share/
     cd "$out"/share/
   '' ["defEnsureDir" "minInit"];
 
@@ -54,7 +54,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["addInputs"];
 
   makeLinks = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     ln -s "../share/tptp/TPTP2X/tptp2X" "$out/bin"
     ln -s "../share/tptp/Scripts/tptp2T" "$out/bin"
     ln -s "../share/tptp/Scripts/tptp4X" "$out/bin"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/math/content/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/math/content/default.nix
index 15abc928f0f..87c047c2995 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/math/content/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/math/content/default.nix
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["addInputs" "buildVibrant" "setPlatform"];
 
   install = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}/build-snapshot $out/bin $out/lib $out/share/${name}/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}/build-snapshot $out/bin $out/lib $out/share/${name}/doc
     find . -name '*.o' -exec cp '{}' $out/lib ';'
     find . -name '*.so' -exec cp '{}' $out/lib ';'
     find . -name '*.txt' -exec cp '{}' $out/share/${name}/doc ';'
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/math/eukleides/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/math/eukleides/default.nix
index 9f65bcb8c14..d15bed8476e 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/math/eukleides/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/math/eukleides/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [bison flex texinfo readline texLive];
 
   preConfigure = "sed -i 's/ginstall-info/install-info/g' doc/Makefile";
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/bin ; make PREFIX=$out install";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/bin ; make PREFIX=$out install";
 
   meta = {
     description = "Geometry Drawing Language";
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/math/maxima/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/math/maxima/default.nix
index 02b7017d295..0d3a12b38c2 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/math/maxima/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/math/maxima/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
       wrapProgram "$prog" --prefix PATH ":" "${searchPath}"
     done
     # Move emacs modules and documentation into the right place.
-    ensureDir $out/share/emacs $out/share/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/share/emacs $out/share/doc
     ln -s ../maxima/${version}/emacs $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
     ln -s ../maxima/${version}/doc $out/share/doc/maxima
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/math/msieve/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/math/msieve/default.nix
index baee2f23d4c..c8b388a06b7 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/math/msieve/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/math/msieve/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
                else if stdenv.system == "i686-linux" then "x86"
                else "generic";
 
-  installPhase = ''ensureDir $out/bin/
+  installPhase = ''mkdir -p $out/bin/
                    cp msieve $out/bin/'';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/science/math/singular/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/science/math/singular/default.nix
index dfc97eca8eb..5c5dfae8200 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/science/math/singular/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/science/math/singular/default.nix
@@ -37,7 +37,7 @@ rec {
   fixInstall = a.fullDepEntry (''
     rm -rf "$out/LIB"
     cp -r Singular/LIB "$out"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     ln -s "$out"/*/Singular "$out/bin"
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2005/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2005/builder.sh
index e6b2bb8787e..8d284176d44 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2005/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2005/builder.sh
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -prvd * $out/
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2006/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2006/builder.sh
index e6b2bb8787e..8d284176d44 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2006/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2006/builder.sh
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -prvd * $out/
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2007/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2007/builder.sh
index e89ba5ae36f..f400f1b8855 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2007/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2007/builder.sh
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -prvd * $out/
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2008/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2008/builder.sh
index e89ba5ae36f..f400f1b8855 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2008/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2008/builder.sh
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -prvd * $out/
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2009/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2009/default.nix
index 231670d263b..eeeb4a1d1e5 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2009/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2009/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       cp -prvd * $out/
       wrapProgram $out/bin/ib2009ux --prefix PATH : ${xdg_utils}/bin
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2010/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2010/default.nix
index cd8a3b62269..65ff561ee9e 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2010/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/taxes/aangifte-2010/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       cp -prvd * $out/
       wrapProgram $out/bin/ib2010ux --prefix PATH : ${xdg_utils}/bin
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/fossil/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/fossil/default.nix
index 7b84dcecb63..325d2e77e1a 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/fossil/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/fossil/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   checkTarget = "test";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     INSTALLDIR=$out/bin make install
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/fast-export/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/fast-export/default.nix
index 45860362433..44e9cd535be 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/fast-export/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/fast-export/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   installPhase = ''
     sed -i "s@/usr/bin/env.*@$(type -p python)@" *.py
     l=$out/libexec/git-fast-export
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,doc/git-fast-export} $l
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,doc/git-fast-export} $l
     mv *.txt $out/doc/git-fast-export
     sed -i "s@ROOT=.*@ROOT=$l@" *.sh
     mv *.sh $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/default.nix
index 795d43da6da..f22fbd102c7 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/default.nix
@@ -42,11 +42,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
       }
 
       # Install contrib stuff.
-      ensureDir $out/share/git
+      mkdir -p $out/share/git
       mv contrib $out/share/git/
-      ensureDir $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
+      mkdir -p $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
       ln -s "$out/share/git/contrib/emacs/"*.el $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/
-      ensureDir $out/etc/bash_completion.d
+      mkdir -p $out/etc/bash_completion.d
       ln -s $out/share/git/contrib/completion/git-completion.bash $out/etc/bash_completion.d/
 
       # grep is a runtime dependence, need to patch so that it's found
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/git-git.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/git-git.nix
index a3b2a60953a..6371e504bfb 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/git-git.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/git/git-git.nix
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ''
       # Install Emacs mode.
       echo "installing Emacs mode..."
-      ensureDir $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
+      mkdir -p $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
       cp -p contrib/emacs/*.el $out/share/emacs/site-lisp
 
       wrapArgs=
@@ -86,7 +86,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
    + ''# install bash completion script
       d="$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
-      ensureDir $d; cp contrib/completion/git-completion.bash "$d"
+      mkdir -p $d; cp contrib/completion/git-completion.bash "$d"
      '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/stgit/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/stgit/default.nix
index 7d622c4067c..a933ae84e60 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/stgit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/stgit/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   makeFlags = "prefix=$$out";
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/etc/bash_completion.d/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/etc/bash_completion.d/"
     ln -s ../../share/stgit/completion/stgit-completion.bash "$out/etc/bash_completion.d/"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/topgit/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/topgit/default.nix
index ef8bb1b4dcf..4b192605182 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/topgit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/git-and-tools/topgit/default.nix
@@ -16,9 +16,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   configurePhase = "export prefix=$out";
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc/topgit-${version}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/topgit-${version}"
     cp README "$out/share/doc/topgit-${version}/"
-    ensureDir "$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
+    mkdir -p "$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
     make prefix="$out" install
     mv "contrib/tg-completion.bash" "$out/etc/bash_completion.d/"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/mercurial/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/mercurial/default.nix
index 8d4a45a496c..a5e4eb8e280 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/mercurial/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/mercurial/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postInstall = (stdenv.lib.optionalString guiSupport
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/etc/mercurial
+      mkdir -p $out/etc/mercurial
       cp contrib/hgk $out/bin
       cat >> $out/etc/mercurial/hgrc << EOF
       [extensions]
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
       done
 
       # copy hgweb.cgi to allow use in apache
-      ensureDir $out/share/cgi-bin
+      mkdir -p $out/share/cgi-bin
       cp -v hgweb.cgi $out/share/cgi-bin
       chmod u+x $out/share/cgi-bin/hgweb.cgi
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/monotone/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/monotone/default.nix
index 70dd669e30f..cde31b5cef9 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/monotone/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/monotone/default.nix
@@ -19,9 +19,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [boost zlib botan libidn lua pcre sqlite pkgconfig];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}
     cp -rv contrib/ $out/share/${name}/contrib
-    ensureDir $out/lib/perl5/site_perl/${perlVersion}
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/perl5/site_perl/${perlVersion}
     cp -v contrib/Monotone.pm $out/lib/perl5/site_perl/${perlVersion}
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/veracity/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/veracity/default.nix
index b4aa63ed014..91650deb077 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/veracity/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/veracity/default.nix
@@ -37,10 +37,10 @@ rec {
   '' else "") ["doMake" "minInit"];
 
   prepare_sgneeds = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/sgneeds/include/spidermonkey"
+    mkdir -p "$out/sgneeds/include/spidermonkey"
     for d in bin include lib; do 
-      ensureDir "$out/sgneeds/$d"
-      ensureDir "$out/sgneeds/$d"
+      mkdir -p "$out/sgneeds/$d"
+      mkdir -p "$out/sgneeds/$d"
       for p in "${spidermonkey_1_8_0rc1}"; do
         for f in "$p"/"$d"/*; do
 	  ln -sf "$f" "$out"/sgneeds/"$d"
@@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ rec {
 	done
       done
 
-    ensureDir "$out/sgneeds/include/sgbrings"
+    mkdir -p "$out/sgneeds/include/sgbrings"
     ln -s "$out/sgneeds/include/js" "$out/sgneeds/include/sgbrings/js"
     for f in "$out/sgneeds/lib/"libjs*; do
       bn="$(basename "$f")"
@@ -84,7 +84,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["minInit"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin" "$out/share/veracity/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin" "$out/share/veracity/"
     cp -r .. "$out/share/veracity/build-dir"
     ln -s "$out/share/veracity/build-dir/build/src/cmd/vv" "$out/bin"
     ln -s "$out/share/veracity/build-dir/build/src/script/vscript" "$out/bin"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/version-management/viewmtn/0.10.nix b/pkgs/applications/version-management/viewmtn/0.10.nix
index a8ced15b58c..d5e7d1e7c83 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/version-management/viewmtn/0.10.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/version-management/viewmtn/0.10.nix
@@ -26,9 +26,9 @@ rec {
 
     fullOut=$(toPythonPath $out)
     
-    ensureDir $fullOut
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/share/viewmtn
+    mkdir -p $fullOut
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/viewmtn
     
     cp -r * $fullOut
     cp $fullOut/viewmtn.py $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/video/RealPlayer/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/video/RealPlayer/builder.sh
index 6a0276d01e4..9929634921c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/video/RealPlayer/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/video/RealPlayer/builder.sh
@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 source $makeWrapper
 
-ensureDir $out/real
+mkdir -p $out/real
 
 skip=143273 # Look for "BZh91" in the executable. 
 
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ rm -rf $out/real/Bin $out/real/postinst
 
 patchelf --interpreter $(cat $NIX_GCC/nix-support/dynamic-linker) $out/real/realplay.bin
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 makeWrapper "$out/real/realplay.bin" "$out/bin/realplay" \
     --set HELIX_LIBS "$out/real" \
     --suffix-each LD_LIBRARY_PATH ':' "$(addSuffix /lib $libPath)"
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/video/dvswitch/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/video/dvswitch/default.nix
index 9ef9b678560..097bf4f49f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/video/dvswitch/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/video/dvswitch/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   ];
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp src/dv* $out/
   ";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/video/gnash/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/video/gnash/default.nix
index 81b33849887..5e6d1d8f942 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/video/gnash/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/video/gnash/default.nix
@@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   # XXX: Tests currently fail.
   doCheck = false;
 
-  preInstall = ''ensureDir $out/plugins'';
+  preInstall = ''mkdir -p $out/plugins'';
   postInstall = ''
     make install-plugins
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/video/lxdvdrip/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/video/lxdvdrip/default.nix
index 5a2c6287c6f..9323a1cbd32 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/video/lxdvdrip/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/video/lxdvdrip/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/man/man1 $out/bin $out/share $out/etc
+    mkdir -p $out/man/man1 $out/bin $out/share $out/etc
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [ libdvdread ];
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/video/mythtv/builder.sh b/pkgs/applications/video/mythtv/builder.sh
index c73132b47bc..31edf87641b 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/video/mythtv/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/applications/video/mythtv/builder.sh
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 
 postInstall() {
     sqlDir="$out/share/mythtv/sql"
-    ensureDir $sqlDir
+    mkdir -p $sqlDir
     cp -p ./database/mc.sql $sqlDir/
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/qemu/linux-img/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/qemu/linux-img/default.nix
index 23e2ab17477..58a2b29c259 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/qemu/linux-img/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/qemu/linux-img/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/qemu-images
+      mkdir -p $out/share/qemu-images
       bunzip2 < $src > $out/share/qemu-images/linux-0.2.img
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/default.nix
index d435f53e109..e0665909a8d 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/default.nix
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   installPhase = ''
     # Install VirtualBox files
     cd out/linux.*/release/bin
-    ensureDir $out/virtualbox
+    mkdir -p $out/virtualbox
     cp -av * $out/virtualbox
     
     # Install kernel module
@@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     make install
     
     # Create wrapper script
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp -v ${./VBox.sh} $out/bin/VBox.sh
     sed -i -e "s|@INSTALL_PATH@|$out/virtualbox|" \
            -e "s|@QT4_PATH@|${qt4}/lib|" \
@@ -90,7 +90,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     done
     
     # Create and fix desktop item
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     sed -i -e "s|Icon=VBox|Icon=$out/virtualbox/VBox.png|" $out/virtualbox/virtualbox.desktop
     ln -sfv $out/virtualbox/virtualbox.desktop $out/share/applications
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/guest-additions/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/guest-additions/default.nix
index 9dfe9c26c0d..f9adf6132f5 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/guest-additions/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/virtualization/virtualbox/guest-additions/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ patchelf cdrkit makeWrapper ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -r install/* $out
 
   '';
@@ -78,10 +78,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sed -i -e "s|/usr/bin|$out/bin|" bin/VBoxClient-all
     
     # Install binaries
-    ensureDir $out/sbin
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin
     install -m 755 sbin/VBoxService $out/sbin
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     install -m 755 bin/VBoxClient $out/bin
     install -m 755 bin/VBoxControl $out/bin
     install -m 755 bin/VBoxClient-all $out/bin
@@ -90,21 +90,21 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
             --prefix PATH : "${which}/bin"
 
     # Install OpenGL libraries
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp -v lib/VBoxOGL*.so $out/lib
-    ensureDir $out/lib/dri
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/dri
     ln -s $out/lib/VBoxOGL.so $out/lib/dri/vboxvideo_dri.so
     
     # Install desktop file
-    ensureDir $out/share/autostart
+    mkdir -p $out/share/autostart
     cp -v share/VBoxGuestAdditions/vboxclient.desktop $out/share/autostart
     
     # Install HAL FDI file
-    ensureDir $out/share/hal/fdi/policy
+    mkdir -p $out/share/hal/fdi/policy
     install -m 644 share/VBoxGuestAdditions/90-vboxguest.fdi $out/share/hal/fdi/policy
     
     # Install Xorg drivers
-    ensureDir $out/lib/xorg/modules/{drivers,input}
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg/modules/{drivers,input}
     install -m 644 lib/VBoxGuestAdditions/vboxvideo_drv_19.so $out/lib/xorg/modules/drivers/vboxvideo_drv.so
     install -m 644 lib/VBoxGuestAdditions/vboxmouse_drv_19.so $out/lib/xorg/modules/input/vboxmouse_drv.so
     
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/stumpwm/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/stumpwm/default.nix
index 47ad4ec7aaf..db0b6e1037c 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/stumpwm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/stumpwm/default.nix
@@ -23,10 +23,10 @@ rec {
   '');
 
   installation = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin 
-    ensureDir $out/share/stumpwm/doc
-    ensureDir $out/share/info 
-    ensureDir $out/share/stumpwm/lisp
+    mkdir -p $out/bin 
+    mkdir -p $out/share/stumpwm/doc
+    mkdir -p $out/share/info 
+    mkdir -p $out/share/stumpwm/lisp
 
     cp stumpwm $out/bin
     cp contrib/stumpish $out/bin || true
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/vwm/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/vwm/default.nix
index 7329c48f41d..3613bb21ff6 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/vwm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/vwm/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/include
   '';
  
   buildInputs = [ ncurses pkgconfig glib libviper libpseudo gpm libvterm ];
diff --git a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/wmii31/default.nix b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/wmii31/default.nix
index d5705af5ce1..50655a851e2 100644
--- a/pkgs/applications/window-managers/wmii31/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/applications/window-managers/wmii31/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ args: with args; stdenv.mkDerivation {
      set +e
      make &> /dev/null
      set -e
-     ensureDir \$out/bin
+     mkdir -p \$out/bin
      cp cmd/wmiimenu \$out/bin
   ";
   meta = { homepage = "www.suckless.org";
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/builder-defs/builder-defs.nix b/pkgs/build-support/builder-defs/builder-defs.nix
index ba13a0911f7..50ab7b9a6c1 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/builder-defs/builder-defs.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/builder-defs/builder-defs.nix
@@ -320,7 +320,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
 
         # changing this ? see [1]
         doForceShare = fullDepEntry (" 
-                ensureDir \"\$prefix/share\"
+                mkdir -p \"\$prefix/share\"
                 for d in ${toString forceShare}; do
                         if [ -d \"\$prefix/\$d\" -a ! -d \"\$prefix/share/\$d\" ]; then
                                 mv -v \"\$prefix/\$d\" \"\$prefix/share\"
@@ -332,7 +332,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
         doForceCopy = fullDepEntry (''
                 name="$(basename $out)"
                 name="''${name#*-}"
-                ensureDir "$prefix/share/$name"
+                mkdir -p "$prefix/share/$name"
                 for f in ${toString forceCopy}; do
                         cp -r "$f" "$prefix/share/$name/$f" || true
                 done;
@@ -393,7 +393,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
         preservePathWrapperArguments = ''''${PATH:+ --prefix PATH : $PATH }'';
 
         doPropagate = fullDepEntry ("
-                ensureDir \$out/nix-support
+                mkdir -p \$out/nix-support
                 echo '${toString (attrByPath ["propagatedBuildInputs"] [] args)}' >\$out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs
         ") ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
@@ -410,7 +410,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
 	'') ["minInit" "addInputs" "doUnpack"];
 
 	doScons = fullDepEntry (''
-		ensureDir $out
+		mkdir -p $out
 		${if (attrByPath ["sconsCleanEnv"] false args)
 		 then ""
 		 else ''
@@ -462,13 +462,13 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
                 x.text + "\n" + after ;};
 
 	createDirs = fullDepEntry (concatStringsSep ";"
-		(map (x: "ensureDir ${x}") (attrByPath ["neededDirs"] [] args))
+		(map (x: "mkdir -p ${x}") (attrByPath ["neededDirs"] [] args))
 	) ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
 	copyExtraDoc = fullDepEntry (''
           name="$(basename $out)"
           name="''${name#*-}"
-          ensureDir "$out/share/doc/$name"
+          mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/$name"
 	'' + (concatStringsSep ";"
                (map 
 	         (x: ''cp "${x}" "$out/share/doc/$name" || true;'') 
@@ -547,11 +547,11 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
    installFonts = 
       let retrievedName = (if args ? name then args.name else ""); in
    fullDepEntry (''
-           ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype/public/${retrievedName}
-           ensureDir $out/share/fonts/opentype/public/${retrievedName}
-           ensureDir $out/share/fonts/type1/public/${retrievedName}
-           ensureDir $out/share/texmf/fonts/enc/${retrievedName}
-           ensureDir $out/share/texmf/fonts/map/${retrievedName}
+           mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype/public/${retrievedName}
+           mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/opentype/public/${retrievedName}
+           mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/type1/public/${retrievedName}
+           mkdir -p $out/share/texmf/fonts/enc/${retrievedName}
+           mkdir -p $out/share/texmf/fonts/map/${retrievedName}
 
         cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype/public/${retrievedName} || echo No TrueType fonts
         cp *.otf $out/share/fonts/opentype/public/${retrievedName} || echo No OpenType fonts
@@ -561,7 +561,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
    '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
    simplyShare = shareName: fullDepEntry (''
-     ensureDir $out/share
+     mkdir -p $out/share
      cp -r . $out/share/${shareName}
    '') ["doUnpack" "defEnsureDir"];
 
@@ -588,7 +588,7 @@ let inherit (builtins) head tail trace; in
    '') ["minInit"];
 
    createPythonInstallationTarget = fullDepEntry (''
-     ensureDir $(toPythonPath $out)
+     mkdir -p $(toPythonPath $out)
      export PYTHONPATH=$PYTHONPATH''${PYTHONPATH:+:}$(toPythonPath $out)
    '') ["minInit" "addInputs" "defEnsureDir"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/clang-wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/clang-wrapper/builder.sh
index fe714a0719a..9f1542e0411 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/clang-wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/clang-wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
-ensureDir $out/nix-support
+mkdir -p $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/nix-support
 
 
 if test -z "$nativeLibc"; then
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/dotnetenv/build-solution.nix b/pkgs/build-support/dotnetenv/build-solution.nix
index 07f1f89c67c..b1853bf7364 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/dotnetenv/build-solution.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/dotnetenv/build-solution.nix
@@ -71,14 +71,14 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 	export AssemblySearchPaths=$assemblySearchPaths
     fi
     
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     MSBuild.exe ${toString slnFile} /nologo /t:${targets} /p:IntermediateOutputPath=$(cygpath --windows $out)\\ /p:OutputPath=$(cygpath --windows $out)\\ /verbosity:${verbosity} ${options}
     
     # Because .NET assemblies store strings as UTF-16 internally, we cannot detect
     # hashes. Therefore a text files containing the proper paths is created
     # We can also use this file the propagate transitive dependencies.
     
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     
     for i in ${toString assemblyInputs}
     do
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/fetchcvs/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/fetchcvs/builder.sh
index 3a1df2553e1..6ee594b33b2 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/fetchcvs/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/fetchcvs/builder.sh
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 # should work (but didn't - got no response on #cvs)
 # See als man Page for those options
 
-ensureDir export
+mkdir -p export
 if [ -n "$tag" ]; then
     tag="-r $tag"
 else
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-cross-wrapper/default.nix b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-cross-wrapper/default.nix
index 8bf820e3d34..ab879c1841f 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-cross-wrapper/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-cross-wrapper/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ let
     phases = [ "installPhase" ];
     installPhase = ''
       echo $out
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       cp -Rd ${gcc}/${cross.config}/lib $out/lib
       chmod -R +w $out/lib
       for a in $out/lib/*.la; do
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-upc-wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-upc-wrapper/builder.sh
index 0c9dccf6edb..af121afe155 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-upc-wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-upc-wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
-ensureDir $out/nix-support
+mkdir -p $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/nix-support
 
 
 if test -z "$nativeLibc"; then
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-wrapper/builder.sh
index 2e87d82f52c..ad2b8003f09 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/gcc-wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/gcc-wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
-ensureDir $out/nix-support
+mkdir -p $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/nix-support
 
 
 if test -z "$nativeLibc"; then
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/kernel/make-initrd.sh b/pkgs/build-support/kernel/make-initrd.sh
index 69931bad113..8d334447b6d 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/kernel/make-initrd.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/kernel/make-initrd.sh
@@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ storePaths=$(perl $pathsFromGraph closure-*)
 
 
 # Put the closure in a gzipped cpio archive.
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 (cd root && find * -print0 | cpio -ov -H newc --null | gzip -9 > $out/initrd)
 
 if [ -n "$makeUInitrd" ]; then
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/kernel/modules-closure.sh b/pkgs/build-support/kernel/modules-closure.sh
index faf6e92fdff..aa2615eb578 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/kernel/modules-closure.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/kernel/modules-closure.sh
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ for module in $rootModules; do
 done
 
 echo "closure:"
-ensureDir $out/lib/modules/"$version"
+mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/"$version"
 for module in $closure; do
     target=$(echo $module | sed "s^$NIX_STORE.*/lib/modules/^$out/lib/modules/^")
     if test -e "$target"; then continue; fi
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/make-desktopitem/default.nix b/pkgs/build-support/make-desktopitem/default.nix
index 7f3b97a33b7..c7f2aea2339 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/make-desktopitem/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/make-desktopitem/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@
 stdenv.mkDerivation {
   inherit name;
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     cat > $out/share/applications/$name.desktop <<EOF
     [Desktop Entry]
     Type=${type}
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/make-wrapper/make-wrapper.sh b/pkgs/build-support/make-wrapper/make-wrapper.sh
index 08146f37897..41f2a59246d 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/make-wrapper/make-wrapper.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/make-wrapper/make-wrapper.sh
@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ makeWrapper() {
     local params varName value command separator n fileNames
     local flagsBefore flags
 
-    ensureDir "$(dirname $wrapper)"
+    mkdir -p "$(dirname $wrapper)"
 
     echo "#! $SHELL -e" > $wrapper
 
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/native-darwin-cctools-wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/native-darwin-cctools-wrapper/builder.sh
index c79b3709ee8..2e2e125c649 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/native-darwin-cctools-wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/native-darwin-cctools-wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 for i in ar as c++filt gprof ld nm nmedit ranlib size strings strip dsymutil libtool; do 
     ln -s /usr/bin/$i $out/bin/
 done
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/nuke-references/builder.sh b/pkgs/build-support/nuke-references/builder.sh
index 3b9324073ef..9e8c464d828 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/nuke-references/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/nuke-references/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cat > $out/bin/nuke-refs <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
 for i in \$*; do
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/ant-build.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/ant-build.nix
index 2aa08ee27de..fe15f93a8fe 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/ant-build.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/ant-build.nix
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
     '';
 
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/java
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/java
       ${ if jars == [] then '' 
            find . -name "*.jar" | xargs -I{} cp -v {} $out/lib/java
          '' else stdenv.lib.concatMapStrings (j: ''
@@ -58,7 +58,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
       header "Generating jar wrappers"
     '' + (stdenv.lib.concatMapStrings (w: ''
 
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       cat >> $out/bin/${w.name} <<EOF
       #! /bin/sh
       export JAVA_HOME=$jre
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
     buildInputs = [ant jre] ++ stdenv.lib.optional (args ? buildInputs) args.buildInputs ;
 
     postHook = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       echo "$system" > $out/nix-support/system
 
       # If `src' is the result of a call to `makeSourceTarball', then it
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/binary-tarball.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/binary-tarball.nix
index f8bb5282ee2..6901c9f5555 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/binary-tarball.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/binary-tarball.nix
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
     name = name + (if src ? version then "-" + src.version else "");
   
     postHook = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       echo "$system" > $out/nix-support/system
 
       # If `src' is the result of a call to `makeSourceTarball', then it
@@ -62,7 +62,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
 
     distPhase =
       ''
-        ensureDir $out/tarballs
+        mkdir -p $out/tarballs
         tar cvfj $out/tarballs/''${releaseName:-binary-dist}.tar.bz2 -C $TMPDIR/inst .
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/debian-build.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/debian-build.nix
index 070a54fc945..8d2ea849a09 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/debian-build.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/debian-build.nix
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ vmTools.runInLinuxImage (stdenv.mkDerivation (
 
     # !!! cut&paste from rpm-build.nix
     postHook = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       cat "$diskImage"/nix-support/full-name > $out/nix-support/full-name
 
       # If `src' is the result of a call to `makeSourceTarball', then it
@@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ vmTools.runInLinuxImage (stdenv.mkDerivation (
         --provides="${concatStringsSep "," debProvides}" \
         make install
 
-      ensureDir $out/debs
+      mkdir -p $out/debs
       find . -name "*.deb" -exec cp {} $out/debs \;
 
       [ "$(echo $out/debs/*.deb)" != "" ]
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/maven-build.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/maven-build.nix
index 66dd10005f2..39f069cd57f 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/maven-build.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/maven-build.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation ( rec {
   setupPhase = ''
     runHook preSetupPhase
 
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     export LANG="en_US.UTF-8"
     export LOCALE_ARCHIVE=$glibcLocales/lib/locale/locale-archive
     export M2_REPO=$TMPDIR/repository
@@ -74,7 +74,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation ( rec {
   '';
 
   mvnRelease = ''
-    ensureDir $out/release
+    mkdir -p $out/release
 
     zip=$(ls target/*.zip| head -1)
     releaseName=$(basename $zip .zip)
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/nix-build.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/nix-build.nix
index a32f0e07a0c..64d8b8f1924 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/nix-build.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/nix-build.nix
@@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
           if test -n "$keepBuildDirectory"; then
               KEEPBUILDDIR="$out/`basename $TMPDIR`"
               header "Copying build directory to $KEEPBUILDDIR"
-              ensureDir $KEEPBUILDDIR
+              mkdir -p $KEEPBUILDDIR
               cp -R $TMPDIR/* $KEEPBUILDDIR
               stopNest 
           fi
@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
     name = name + (if src ? version then "-" + src.version else "");
   
     postHook = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       echo "$system" > $out/nix-support/system
 
       if test -z "${toString doCoverageAnalysis}"; then
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/rpm-build.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/rpm-build.nix
index 326ccbe9c42..26b120e5b1d 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/rpm-build.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/rpm-build.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ vmTools.buildRPM (
     name = name + "-" + diskImage.name + (if src ? version then "-" + src.version else "");
 
     preBuild = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       cat "$diskImage"/nix-support/full-name > $out/nix-support/full-name
 
       # If `src' is the result of a call to `makeSourceTarball', then it
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/release/source-tarball.nix b/pkgs/build-support/release/source-tarball.nix
index 16ac0033d93..af8b9d3c789 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/release/source-tarball.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/release/source-tarball.nix
@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
           if test -n "$keepBuildDirectory"; then
               KEEPBUILDDIR="$out/`basename $TMPDIR`"
               header "Copying build directory to $KEEPBUILDDIR"
-              ensureDir $KEEPBUILDDIR
+              mkdir -p $KEEPBUILDDIR
               cp -R $TMPDIR/* $KEEPBUILDDIR
               stopNest
           fi
@@ -91,7 +91,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (
     buildInputs = buildInputs ++ bootstrapBuildInputs;
     
     postHook = ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     '';  
 
     postUnpack = ''
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/substitute/substitute-all.sh b/pkgs/build-support/substitute/substitute-all.sh
index 796a1a47152..ec220481fcc 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/substitute/substitute-all.sh
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/substitute/substitute-all.sh
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ args=
 target=$out
 if test -n "$dir"; then
     target=$out/$dir/$name
-    ensureDir $out/$dir
+    mkdir -p $out/$dir
 fi
 
 substituteAll $src $target
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/trivial-builders.nix b/pkgs/build-support/trivial-builders.nix
index 5defdb55b95..1815c99a9f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/trivial-builders.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/trivial-builders.nix
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ rec {
   makeSetupHook = { deps ? [], substitutions ? {} }: script:
     runCommand "hook" substitutions
       (''
-        ensureDir $out/nix-support
+        mkdir -p $out/nix-support
         cp ${script} $out/nix-support/setup-hook
       '' + stdenv.lib.optionalString (deps != []) ''
         echo ${toString deps} > $out/nix-support/propagated-build-native-inputs
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/upstream-updater/attrset-to-dir.nix b/pkgs/build-support/upstream-updater/attrset-to-dir.nix
index a05f80da085..bdf44b7a5bf 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/upstream-updater/attrset-to-dir.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/upstream-updater/attrset-to-dir.nix
@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 a :  
 a.stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/attributes"
+    mkdir -p "$out/attributes"
     
   '' + (a.lib.concatStrings (map
     (n: ''
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/vm/default.nix b/pkgs/build-support/vm/default.nix
index 207edce147b..63fc994af37 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/vm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/vm/default.nix
@@ -29,8 +29,8 @@ rec {
       allowedReferences = [ "out" modulesClosure ]; # prevent accidents like glibc being included in the initrd
     }
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
-      ensureDir $out/lib
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/lib
       
       # Copy what we need from Glibc.
       cp -p ${glibc}/lib/ld-linux*.so.? $out/lib
@@ -364,8 +364,8 @@ rec {
         ${module_init_tools}/sbin/modprobe cramfs
         mknod /dev/loop0 b 7 0
 
-        ensureDir $out
-        ensureDir tmp
+        mkdir -p $out
+        mkdir -p tmp
         mount -o loop,ro,ufstype=44bsd ${lib.optionalString (fs != null) "-t ${fs} "}${file} tmp ||
           mount -o loop,ro ${lib.optionalString (fs != null) "-t ${fs} "}${file} tmp
         cp -Rv tmp/* $out/ || exit 0
@@ -388,8 +388,8 @@ rec {
         mknod /dev/mtd0 c 90 0
         mknod /dev/mtdblock0 b 31 0
 
-        ensureDir $out
-        ensureDir tmp
+        mkdir -p $out
+        mkdir -p tmp
 
         dd if=${file} of=/dev/mtd0
         mount ${lib.optionalString (fs != null) "-t ${fs} "}/dev/mtdblock0 tmp
@@ -610,7 +610,7 @@ rec {
     installPhase = ''
       eval "$preInstall"
 
-      ensureDir $out/$outDir
+      mkdir -p $out/$outDir
       find $rpmout -name "*.rpm" -exec cp {} $out/$outDir \;
 
       for i in $out/$outDir/*.rpm; do
diff --git a/pkgs/build-support/vsenv/build-solution.nix b/pkgs/build-support/vsenv/build-solution.nix
index 7d7d6a86e1f..32dd06abfaf 100644
--- a/pkgs/build-support/vsenv/build-solution.nix
+++ b/pkgs/build-support/vsenv/build-solution.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   installPhase = ''
     cd ${baseDir}
     vcbuild.exe /rebuild ${slnFile}
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp Debug/* $out
   '';
   buildInputs = [ vs ] ++ extraBuildInputs;
diff --git a/pkgs/data/documentation/pthread-man-pages/default.nix b/pkgs/data/documentation/pthread-man-pages/default.nix
index a19c8bf8e9a..296ba982b8a 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/documentation/pthread-man-pages/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/documentation/pthread-man-pages/default.nix
@@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ in
     '';
 
     patchPhase = ''
-      ensureDir "$out/share/man/man3"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man3"
 
       sed -i "linuxthreads/man/Makefile" \
           -e "s|MANDIR *=.*$|MANDIR = $out/share/man/man3| ;
diff --git a/pkgs/data/documentation/rnrs/builder.sh b/pkgs/data/documentation/rnrs/builder.sh
index 096dd2a8ca7..6ec5c855aba 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/documentation/rnrs/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/data/documentation/rnrs/builder.sh
@@ -4,9 +4,9 @@ source "$stdenv/setup" || exit 1
 
 echo "source is \`$src', report name is \`$reportName'"
 
-ensureDir "$out/share/info" &&					\
+mkdir -p "$out/share/info" &&					\
 makeinfo -o "$out/share/info/${reportName}.info" "$src"
 
 # XXX: HTML output is apparently broken.
-#ensureDir "$out/share/doc/${reportName}" &&			\
+#mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/${reportName}" &&			\
 #makeinfo -o "$out/share/doc/${reportName}/html" --html --force "$src"
diff --git a/pkgs/data/documentation/std-man-pages/default.nix b/pkgs/data/documentation/std-man-pages/default.nix
index 221f76c36fa..3b45da914d2 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/documentation/std-man-pages/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/documentation/std-man-pages/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/man
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man
     cp -R * $out/share/man
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/andagii/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/andagii/default.nix
index 8c2803c26d7..742f0bd0b4a 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/andagii/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/andagii/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["addInputs"];
 
   doInstall = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out"/share/fonts/ttf/
+    mkdir -p "$out"/share/fonts/ttf/
     cp ANDAGII_.TTF "$out"/share/fonts/ttf/andagii.ttf
   '') ["defEnsureDir" "minInit"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/bakoma-ttf/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/bakoma-ttf/default.nix
index c7f1ad38f47..5f9cbec7a97 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/bakoma-ttf/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/bakoma-ttf/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
   
   buildPhase = "true";
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype; cp ttf/*.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype; cp ttf/*.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype";
 
   meta = {
     description = "TrueType versions of the Computer Modern and AMS TeX Fonts";
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/clearlyU/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/clearlyU/default.nix
index 32050ac5c28..2761ed6f3e6 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/clearlyU/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/clearlyU/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/fonts
+      mkdir -p $out/share/fonts
       cp *.bdf $out/share/fonts
       cd $out/share/fonts
       mkfontdir 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/corefonts/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/corefonts/default.nix
index 75896e059bf..b26d3bd8c1d 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/corefonts/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/corefonts/default.nix
@@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     cabextract --lowercase viewer1.cab
   
     fontDir=$out/share/fonts/truetype
-    ensureDir $fontDir
+    mkdir -p $fontDir
     cp *.ttf $fontDir
 
     # Also put the EULA there to be on the safe side.
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/dejavu-fonts/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/dejavu-fonts/default.nix
index fb952f39604..505746b3edf 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/dejavu-fonts/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/dejavu-fonts/default.nix
@@ -19,11 +19,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     ln -s ${perl}/lib/*/*/unicore/* -t resources/
   '';
   installPhase = '' 
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype
     for i in $(find build -name '*.ttf'); do 
         cp $i $out/share/fonts/truetype; 
     done;
-    ensureDir $out/share/dejavu-fonts
+    mkdir -p $out/share/dejavu-fonts
     cp -r build/* $out/share/dejavu-fonts
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/fontWrap/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/fontWrap/default.nix
index 927cc48575d..0d6750614d4 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/fontWrap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/fontWrap/default.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ args : with args;
 	in with localDefs;
 let
 	doInstall = fullDepEntry ("
-		ensureDir \$out/share/fonts/
+		mkdir -p \$out/share/fonts/
 		cd \$out/share/fonts
 		for i in ${toString paths}; do
 			find \$i -type f -exec ln -s '{}' . ';' ;
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/freefont-ttf/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/freefont-ttf/default.nix
index e1427a79f0d..0ff2ec7ba16 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/freefont-ttf/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/freefont-ttf/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype
     cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/junicode/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/junicode/default.nix
index eb7547e628f..1690f82aa37 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/junicode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/junicode/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/fonts/junicode-ttf
+      mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/junicode-ttf
       cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/junicode-ttf
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/lmodern/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/lmodern/default.nix
index a5dc014d8b4..831a3ddbd09 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/lmodern/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/lmodern/default.nix
@@ -9,8 +9,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/
 
     cp -r ./* $out/texmf/
     cp -r fonts/{opentype,type1} $out/share/fonts/
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/mph-2b-damase/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/mph-2b-damase/default.nix
index ceca85a0d23..7fe56987ad3 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/mph-2b-damase/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/mph-2b-damase/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     unzip $src;
   '';
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype
     cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/redhat-liberation-fonts/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/redhat-liberation-fonts/default.nix
index cb1225763fd..c331b85029d 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/redhat-liberation-fonts/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/redhat-liberation-fonts/default.nix
@@ -8,10 +8,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype
     cp -v *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype
 
-    ensureDir "$out/doc/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/doc/${name}"
     cp -v AUTHORS ChangeLog COPYING License.txt README "$out/doc/${name}"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/ttf-bitstream-vera/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/ttf-bitstream-vera/default.nix
index 57f463ba64c..64b18ffdaaa 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/ttf-bitstream-vera/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/ttf-bitstream-vera/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "true";
   installPhase = "
     fontDir=$out/share/fonts/truetype
-    ensureDir $fontDir
+    mkdir -p $fontDir
     cp *.ttf $fontDir
   ";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/unifont/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/unifont/default.nix
index 76d2f3b28c1..79d1a090905 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/unifont/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/unifont/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/fonts $out/share/fonts/truetype
+      mkdir -p $out/share/fonts $out/share/fonts/truetype
       cp ${pcf} $out/share/fonts/unifont.pcf.gz
       gunzip < ${ttf} > $out/share/fonts/truetype/unifont.ttf
       cd $out/share/fonts
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/vista-fonts/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/vista-fonts/default.nix
index 73dcf368d72..19996f3f1a3 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/vista-fonts/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/vista-fonts/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "true";
   
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/share/fonts/truetype; cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype
+    mkdir -p $out/share/fonts/truetype; cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts/truetype
   ";
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/data/fonts/wqy-zenhei/default.nix b/pkgs/data/fonts/wqy-zenhei/default.nix
index ba38d8dc1ab..698ecc53046 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/fonts/wqy-zenhei/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/fonts/wqy-zenhei/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/fonts
+      mkdir -p $out/share/fonts
       cp *.ttf $out/share/fonts
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/misc/cacert/default.nix b/pkgs/data/misc/cacert/default.nix
index 6156cf17f16..4db1e84b485 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/misc/cacert/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/misc/cacert/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/etc
+      mkdir -p $out/etc
       bunzip2 < $src > $out/etc/ca-bundle.crt
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/docbook-5.0/builder.sh b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/docbook-5.0/builder.sh
index e0cdb22e23c..96ad77eaa57 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/docbook-5.0/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/docbook-5.0/builder.sh
@@ -4,14 +4,14 @@ unpackFile $src
 
 cd docbook-*
 
-ensureDir $out/xml/rng
+mkdir -p $out/xml/rng
 cp -prv rng $out/xml/rng/docbook
 
-ensureDir $out/xml/dtd
+mkdir -p $out/xml/dtd
 cp -prv dtd $out/xml/dtd/docbook
 
-ensureDir $out/share/doc
+mkdir -p $out/share/doc
 cp -prv docs $out/share/doc/docbook
 
-ensureDir $out/share/docbook
+mkdir -p $out/share/docbook
 cp -prv tools $out/share/docbook/
diff --git a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/xml-dtd/xhtml1/default.nix b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/xml-dtd/xhtml1/default.nix
index cdcf62467db..8e626e3bc52 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/xml-dtd/xhtml1/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/schemas/xml-dtd/xhtml1/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/xml/dtd/xhtml1
+      mkdir -p $out/xml/dtd/xhtml1
       cp DTD/*.ent DTD/*.dtd $out/xml/dtd/xhtml1
 
       # Generate an XML catalog.
diff --git a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl-ns/default.nix b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl-ns/default.nix
index 978bbcbd5a7..c143ce16698 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl-ns/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl-ns/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/xml/xsl
+      mkdir -p $out/xml/xsl
       cd ..
       mv docbook-xsl-ns-* $out/xml/xsl/docbook
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl/builder.sh b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl/builder.sh
index 1534806895c..9ac8e74d93a 100644
--- a/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/data/sgml+xml/stylesheets/xslt/docbook-xsl/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 cd $out
 unpackFile $src
 mkdir xml
diff --git a/pkgs/desktops/gnome-2/platform/gtk-doc/default.nix b/pkgs/desktops/gnome-2/platform/gtk-doc/default.nix
index 90a9088d456..c5086accc0d 100644
--- a/pkgs/desktops/gnome-2/platform/gtk-doc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/desktops/gnome-2/platform/gtk-doc/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # maybe there is a better way to pass the needed dtd and xsl files
   # "-//OASIS//DTD DocBook XML V4.1.2//EN" and "http://docbook.sourceforge.net/release/xsl/current/html/chunk.xsl"
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     cat > $out/nix-support/catalog.xml << EOF
     <?xml version="1.0"?>
     <!DOCTYPE catalog PUBLIC "-//OASIS//DTD Entity Resolution XML Catalog V1.0//EN" "http://www.oasis-open.org/committees/entity/release/1.0/catalog.dtd">
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder-binjar.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder-binjar.sh
index 9faa0541c6c..a954c49aa3f 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder-binjar.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder-binjar.sh
@@ -1,4 +1,4 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 cp $src $out/jars/$jarname.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder.sh
index 36d2e4e68e1..ba594023842 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/builder.sh
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ EOF
 
 $apacheAnt/bin/ant jars
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 
 cp lib/abc.jar $out/jars
 cp lib/abc-runtime.jar $out/jars
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ cp lib/abc-testing.jar $out/jars
 cp lib/abc-complete.jar $out/jars
 
 # Create the executable abc script
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cat > $out/bin/abc <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/jasmin/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/jasmin/builder.sh
index c30f86fb7f5..81b150b9527 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/jasmin/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/jasmin/builder.sh
@@ -20,5 +20,5 @@ EOF
 
 ant jasmin-jar
 
-ensureDir $out/jars/
+mkdir -p $out/jars/
 mv lib/jasminclasses-foo.jar $out/jars/jasmin.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/polyglot/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/polyglot/builder.sh
index 81acfde1d4f..babae49ae55 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/polyglot/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/polyglot/builder.sh
@@ -6,6 +6,6 @@ cd polyglot-*
 ant polyglot-jar
 ant cup
 
-ensureDir $out/jars/
+mkdir -p $out/jars/
 mv lib/java_cup.jar $out/jars/
 mv lib/polyglot*.jar $out/jars/
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/soot/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/soot/builder.sh
index 18718943077..adc27161e4e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/soot/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/abc/soot/builder.sh
@@ -15,5 +15,5 @@ EOF
 
 ant classesjar
 
-ensureDir $out/jars/
+mkdir -p $out/jars/
 mv lib/sootclasses-foo.jar $out/jars/soot.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/adobe-flex-sdk/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/adobe-flex-sdk/default.nix
index 190da872278..fc4511d896e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/adobe-flex-sdk/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/adobe-flex-sdk/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   installPhase = ''
     unzip ${src}
     t=$out/opt/flex-sdk
-    ensureDir $t $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $t $out/bin
     mv * $t
     rm $t/bin/*.exe $t/bin/*.bat
     sed 's/
$//' -i $t/bin/*
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/aspectj/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/aspectj/builder.sh
index 7b82f7f2a9e..3b439372004 100755
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/aspectj/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/aspectj/builder.sh
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ output.dir=$out
 context.javaPath=$jre
 EOF
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 $jre/bin/java -jar $src -text props
 
 echo "Removing files at top level"
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ccl/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ccl/default.nix
index 404c0fce523..54628fa509d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ccl/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ccl/default.nix
@@ -21,10 +21,10 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doUnpack" "doPatchElf" "doCopy"];
 
   doCopy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share"
     cp -r . "$out/share/ccl-installation"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     for i in $(find . -maxdepth 1 -type f -perm +111); do
       echo -e '#! /bin/sh\n'"$out/share/ccl-installation/$(basename "$i")"'"$@"\n' > "$out"/bin/"$(basename "$i")"
       chmod a+x "$out"/bin/"$(basename "$i")"
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/cmucl/binary.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/cmucl/binary.nix
index 1e5c7d4febc..11d0b723ce4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/cmucl/binary.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/cmucl/binary.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   name = "cmucl-binary-${version}";
 
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     tar -C $out -xjf ${dist}
     patchelf --set-interpreter "$(cat $NIX_GCC/nix-support/dynamic-linker)" \
       $out/bin/lisp
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/eql/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/eql/default.nix
index 70d30947224..4e288824713 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/eql/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/eql/default.nix
@@ -64,7 +64,7 @@ rec {
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
     cd ..
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib/eql/ $out/include $out/include/gen $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib/eql/ $out/include $out/include/gen $out/lib
     cp -r . $out/lib/eql/build-dir
     ln -s $out/lib/eql/build-dir/eql $out/bin
     ln -s $out/lib/eql/build-dir/src/*.h $out/include
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/fpc/lazarus.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/fpc/lazarus.nix
index d8830c4e249..1cb4e479e37 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/fpc/lazarus.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/fpc/lazarus.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ rec {
   preBuild = fullDepEntry (''
     export NIX_LDFLAGS='-lXi -lX11 -lglib-2.0 -lgtk-x11-2.0 -lgdk-x11-2.0 -lc -lXext -lpango-1.0 -latk-1.0 -lgdk_pixbuf-2.0 -lcairo'
     export LCL_PLATFORM=gtk2
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     tar xf ${fpc.src} --strip-components=1 -C $out/share -m
     sed -e 's@/usr/fpcsrc@'"$out/share/fpcsrc@" -i ide/include/unix/lazbaseconf.inc
   '') 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.10.2-binary.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.10.2-binary.nix
index bda8372e6c4..616c9de7ede 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.10.2-binary.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.10.2-binary.nix
@@ -70,11 +70,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   postInstall =
     (if stdenv.isDarwin then
       ''
-        ensureDir $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
+        mkdir -p $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
         ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/GMP
         ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A/GMP
         # !!! fix this
-        ensureDir $out/frameworks/GNUeditline.framework/Versions/A
+        mkdir -p $out/frameworks/GNUeditline.framework/Versions/A
         ln -s ${libedit}/lib/libeditline.dylib $out/frameworks/GNUeditline.framework/GNUeditline
         ln -s ${libedit}/lib/libeditline.dylib $out/frameworks/GNUeditline.framework/Versions/A/GNUeditline
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.12.1-binary.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.12.1-binary.nix
index 6394780eb68..a84b75d705b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.12.1-binary.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.12.1-binary.nix
@@ -75,7 +75,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   postInstall =
     (if stdenv.isDarwin then
       ''
-        ensureDir $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
+        mkdir -p $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
         ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/GMP
         ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A/GMP
         # !!! fix this
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.4.2-binary.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.4.2-binary.nix
index 63cc08db34b..2ed6f2be4fe 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.4.2-binary.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.4.2-binary.nix
@@ -49,10 +49,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # that the executables work with no special setup.
   postInstall = if stdenv.isDarwin then ''
 
-    ensureDir $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
+    mkdir -p $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A
     ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/GMP
     ln -s ${gmp}/lib/libgmp.dylib $out/frameworks/GMP.framework/Versions/A/GMP
-    ensureDir $out/frameworks/GNUreadline.framework/Versions/A
+    mkdir -p $out/frameworks/GNUreadline.framework/Versions/A
     ln -s ${readline}/lib/libreadline.dylib $out/frameworks/GNUreadline.framework/GNUreadline
     ln -s ${readline}/lib/libreadline.dylib $out/frameworks/GNUreadline.framework/Versions/A/GNUreadline
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.6.1.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.6.1.nix
index c54c32bfab0..994ebc286c3 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.6.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/6.6.1.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
   };
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
     echo "# Path to the GHC compiler directory in the store" > $out/nix-support/setup-hook
     echo "ghc=$out" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook
     echo ""         >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/with-packages.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/with-packages.nix
index 19ce4eabf42..63427ea8278 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/with-packages.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/with-packages.nix
@@ -15,9 +15,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     linkedTopDir="$out/lib"
     linkedPkgDir="$linkedTopDir/package.conf.d"
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $linkedTopDir
-    ensureDir $linkedPkgDir
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $linkedTopDir
+    mkdir -p $linkedPkgDir
 
     echo "Linking GHC core libraries:"
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/wrapper.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/wrapper.nix
index 60342a14a61..b04cd18fb46 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/wrapper.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ghc/wrapper.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   unpackPhase = "true";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp $GHCGetPackages $out/bin/ghc-get-packages.sh
     chmod 755 $out/bin/ghc-get-packages.sh
     for prg in ghc ghci ghc-${ghc.version} ghci-${ghc.version}; do
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     done
     EOF
     chmod +x $out/bin/ghc-packages
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     ln -s $out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs $out/nix-support/propagated-user-env-packages
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/gnatboot/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/gnatboot/default.nix
index 954fb6bf594..79208743ae4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/gnatboot/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/gnatboot/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   dontStrip=1;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R * $out
     set +e
     for a in $out/bin/* ; do
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/go/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/go/default.nix
index 3f2c3274822..143c091a1dc 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/go/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/go/default.nix
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
           else throw "Unsupported system";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     export GOROOT="$(pwd)/"
     export GOBIN="$out/bin"
     export PATH="$GOBIN:$PATH"
@@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
     # Handle Libraries and make them availabale under /share/go.
     export GOLIB="pkg/"$GOOS"_"$GOARCH
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/go/$GOLIB"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/go/$GOLIB"
     cp -r ./$GOLIB $out/lib/go/pkg/
 
     # this line set $AS $CC $GC $LD
@@ -75,7 +75,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
       --set "GOARCH" "$GOARCH"
 
     # Copy the emacs configuration for Go files.
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp ./misc/emacs/* $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/ # */
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/gwt/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/gwt/builder.sh
index d260bd559dc..b14a0432ea5 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/gwt/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/gwt/builder.sh
@@ -1,14 +1,14 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 tar xfvj $src
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 cp -av $name $out
 
 # Create wrapper scripts so that the GWT compiler/host work
 
 libPath="$libstdcpp5/lib:$glib/lib:$gtk/lib:$atk/lib:$pango/lib:$libX11/lib:$libXt/lib:$out/$name/mozilla-1.7.12"
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 cat > $out/bin/gwt-compile <<EOF
 #!/bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/haxe/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/haxe/default.nix
index 33260cd5469..8018b478e80 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/haxe/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/haxe/default.nix
@@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ let
 
       # probably rpath should be set properly
       installPhase = ''
-        ensureDir $out/lib/haxe
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/haxe
         cp -r bin $out/bin
         wrapProgram "$out/bin/haxe" \
           --set "LD_LIBRARY_PATH" $zlib/lib \
@@ -107,7 +107,7 @@ let
         buildPhase = ''
           cd std/tools/${name};
           haxe *.hxml
-          ensureDir $out/bin
+          mkdir -p $out/bin
           mv ${name} $out/bin/
         '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/builder.sh
index 7f402dab158..ccfe2838d1b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/builder.sh
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 unzip $src || true
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 mv $dirname/* $out/
 
 # Remove crap in the root directory.
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/dlj-bundle-builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/dlj-bundle-builder.sh
index ee58ce9127c..f0d36347ab0 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/dlj-bundle-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/dlj-bundle-builder.sh
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ patchelf --interpreter "$(cat $NIX_GCC/nix-support/dynamic-linker)" --set-rpath
 echo "constructing JDK and JRE installations"
 if test -z "$installjdk"; then
   sh ${construct} . tmp-linux-jdk tmp-linux-jre
-  ensureDir $out
+  mkdir -p $out
   cp -R tmp-linux-jre/* $out
 else
   sh ${construct} . $out tmp-linux-jre
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/ibm-builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/ibm-builder.sh
index b78dac6163b..2ff3a71322a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/ibm-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/jdk/ibm-builder.sh
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ fi
 
 tar zxf $pathname || true
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 mv $dirname/* $out/
 
 # Remove crap in the root directory.
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/llvm/dragonegg.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/llvm/dragonegg.nix
index 70098a19a06..fbaa80c115d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/llvm/dragonegg.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/llvm/dragonegg.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ llvm gmp mpfr mpc ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib $out/share/doc/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/lib $out/share/doc/${name}
     cp -d dragonegg.so $out/lib
     cp README COPYING $out/share/doc/${name}
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/neko/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/neko/default.nix
index 060d59476cf..28a98fe1e25 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/neko/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/neko/default.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} ( fixed : {
       src/tools/install.neko
     sed -i "s@/usr/local@$out@" Makefile vm/load.c
     # make sure that nekotools boot finds the neko executable and not our wrapper:
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,lib}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,lib}
 
     sed -i "s@\"neko\"@\".neko-wrapped\"@" src/tools/nekoboot.neko
     ln -s ./neko bin/.neko-wrapped
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/nvidia-cg-toolkit/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/nvidia-cg-toolkit/default.nix
index 8bb201f975e..c2700b01ffa 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/nvidia-cg-toolkit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/nvidia-cg-toolkit/default.nix
@@ -28,19 +28,19 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
         patchelf --set-interpreter ${stdenv.glibc}/lib/ld-linux-*.so.? "bin/$b"
     done
     # FIXME: cgfxcat and cginfo need more patchelf
-    ensureDir "$out/bin/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin/"
     cp -v bin/* "$out/bin/"
-    ensureDir "$out/include/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/include/"
     cp -v -r include/Cg/ "$out/include/"
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/"
     [ "$system" = "x86_64-linux" ] && cp -v lib64/* "$out/lib/"
     [ "$system" = "i686-linux" ] && cp -v lib/* "$out/lib/"
     for mandir in man1 man3 manCg manCgFX
     do
-        ensureDir "$out/share/man/$mandir/"
+        mkdir -p "$out/share/man/$mandir/"
         cp -v share/man/$mandir/* "$out/share/man/$mandir/"
     done
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc/$name/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/$name/"
     cp -v -r local/Cg/* "$out/share/doc/$name/"
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.10.0.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.10.0.nix
index fdd95db5440..281aa1a9de6 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.10.0.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.10.0.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
     sed -e "s@/bin/cat@$CAT@" -i config/auto-aux/sharpbang
   '';
   postBuild = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     ln -sv $out/lib/ocaml/caml $out/include/caml
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.11.1.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.11.1.nix
index 0add40dcd68..f7db9231bd4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.11.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.11.1.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     patch -p0 < ${./mips64.patch}
   '';
   postBuild = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     ln -sv $out/lib/ocaml/caml $out/include/caml
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.12.1.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.12.1.nix
index eaf1f55e281..155523ebe56 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.12.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/3.12.1.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     sed -e "s@/bin/cat@$CAT@" -i config/auto-aux/sharpbang
   '';
   postBuild = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     ln -sv $out/lib/ocaml/caml $out/include/caml
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/ber-metaocaml-003.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/ber-metaocaml-003.nix
index 5b3052b544a..df3e9e73af5 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/ber-metaocaml-003.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/ber-metaocaml-003.nix
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     cd ..
   '';
   postBuild = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     ln -sv $out/lib/ocaml/caml $out/include/caml
   '';
   postInstall = ''
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/metaocaml-3.09.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/metaocaml-3.09.nix
index b115a8fedcf..4313dcd7537 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/metaocaml-3.09.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/ocaml/metaocaml-3.09.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
     sed -e "s@/bin/cat@$CAT@" -i config/auto-aux/sharpbang
   '';
   postBuild = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     ln -sv $out/lib/ocaml/caml $out/include/caml
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/opa/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/opa/default.nix
index 6df16e44c3d..2a54b90dda9 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/opa/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/opa/default.nix
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     done
 
     # Install emacs mode.
-    ensureDir $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/opa
+    mkdir -p $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/opa
     install -m 0644 -v ./utils/emacs/{opa-mode.el,site-start.el} $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/opa
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk-darwin/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk-darwin/default.nix
index 88099a90949..cbd41033bfc 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk-darwin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk-darwin/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -vR * $out/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk/default.nix
index 0ea08071aaa..cf85c1706a8 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/openjdk/default.nix
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   ];
 
   postUnpack = ''
-    ensureDir drops
+    mkdir -p drops
     cp ${jaxp_src} drops/${jaxp_src_name}
     cp ${jaxws_src} drops/${jaxws_src_name}
     cp ${jaf_src} drops/${jaf_src_name}
@@ -114,14 +114,14 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -av build/*/j2${if jreOnly then "re" else "sdk"}-image/* $out
   '';
 #  '' + (if jreOnly then "" else ''
 #    if [ -z $jre ]; then
 #      exit 0
 #    fi
-#    ensureDir $jre
+#    mkdir -p $jre
 #    cp -av build/*/j2re-image/* $jre
 #  '');
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/pakcs/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/pakcs/default.nix
index 3c4723a88fb..6bec1925f0b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/pakcs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/pakcs/default.nix
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     # The Prolog sources must be built in their final directory.
     (cd $out/curry2prolog/ ; make)
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/curry-pakcs
+    mkdir -p $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/curry-pakcs
     for e in "$out/tools/emacs/"*.el ; do
       ln -s $out/tools/emacs/$e $out/share/emacs/site-lisp/curry-pakcs/;
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/qi/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/qi/default.nix
index f1f34f87d69..ae017255854 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/qi/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/qi/default.nix
@@ -16,8 +16,8 @@ let
 	allBuild = fullDepEntry ("
 		(sleep 0.1; echo ) | clisp install.txt;
 		(sleep 0.1; echo -e '1\n(quit)\n' ) | sh Qi-Linux-CLisp 
-		ensureDir \$out/share
-		ensureDir \$out/bin
+		mkdir -p \$out/share
+		mkdir -p \$out/bin
 		cp -r . \$out/share/Qi-9.1
 		echo -e '#! ${shell}
 		arg1=\${1:-'\$out'/share/Qi-9.1/startup.txt}
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/scala/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/scala/default.nix
index 9ce9eaebc12..f50c15a3a0b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/scala/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/scala/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     rm bin/*.bat
     mv * $out
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/stalin/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/stalin/default.nix
index acae45626a0..a45217a331a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/stalin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/stalin/default.nix
@@ -13,19 +13,19 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = '' ./build '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp stalin "$out/bin"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/man/man1"
+    mkdir -p "$out/man/man1"
     cp stalin.1 "$out/man/man1"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp stalin.el "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/doc/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/doc/${name}"
     cp README "$out/doc/${name}"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/${name}/include"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}/include"
     cp "include/"* "$out/share/${name}/include"
 
     substituteInPlace "$out/bin/stalin" \
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/tinycc/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/tinycc/default.nix
index 7ece90e8601..058d84a12de 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/tinycc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/tinycc/default.nix
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ let version = "0.9.25"; in
     postInstall = ''
       makeinfo --force tcc-doc.texi || true
 
-      ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
       mv tcc-doc.info* "$out/share/info"
 
       echo 'int main () { printf ("it works!\n"); exit(0); }' | \
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/builder.sh
index 137db50fb62..5469f3760ca 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 cabextract $src
 
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ rm ../vc* # reduce temporary disk usage a bit
 while read target; do
     read source
     echo "$source -> $target"
-    ensureDir $out/$(dirname $target)
+    mkdir -p $out/$(dirname $target)
     cp -p "$source" $out/"$target"
 done < $filemap
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/test/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/test/builder.sh
index 8adb7e466ee..c11ffc574a8 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/test/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/visual-c++/test/builder.sh
@@ -2,5 +2,5 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 source $visualcpp/setup
 source $windowssdk/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cl "$(cygpath -w $src)" /Fe"$(cygpath -w $out/bin/hello.exe)" user32.lib
diff --git a/pkgs/development/compilers/vs90wrapper/default.nix b/pkgs/development/compilers/vs90wrapper/default.nix
index 47d7c2654a1..341833fdf47 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/compilers/vs90wrapper/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/compilers/vs90wrapper/default.nix
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@
 stdenv.mkDerivation {
   name = "visual-studio-9.0";
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ln -s "/cygdrive/c/Program Files/Microsoft Visual Studio 9.0/VC/vcpackages/vcbuild.exe" $out/bin/vcbuild.exe
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/acl2/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/acl2/default.nix
index 6cad083ac85..6d074ac9f27 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/acl2/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/acl2/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ rec {
     cd $out/share/${installSuffix}
     make LISP=${a.sbcl}/bin/sbcl
     make LISP=${a.sbcl}/bin/sbcl regression
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp saved_acl2 "$out/bin/acl2"
   '') ["doDeploy" "addInputs" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/angelscript/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/angelscript/default.nix
index 65ff72bae56..24edb2ec4df 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/angelscript/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/angelscript/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
   prepareBuild = a.fullDepEntry ''
     cd angelscript/projects/gnuc
     sed -i makefile -e "s@LOCAL = .*@LOCAL = $out@"
-    ensureDir "$out/lib" "$out/bin" "$out/share" "$out/include"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib" "$out/bin" "$out/share" "$out/include"
     export SHARED=1 
     export VERSION="${version}"
   '' ["minInit" "addInputs" "doUnpack" "defEnsureDir"];
@@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["minInit"];
 
   installDocs = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/angelscript"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/angelscript"
     cp -r ../../../docs  "$out/share/angelscript"
   '' ["defEnsureDir" "prepareBuild"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/binary.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/binary.nix
index 7b53ea9022d..8cf350e7e97 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/binary.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/binary.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   phases = "unpackPhase installPhase";
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/lib/java
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/java
     install -t $out/lib/java clojure.jar
   ";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/clooj.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/clooj.nix
index 23bf9ad03b7..2ad6f751f2b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/clooj.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/clooj.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   phases = "installPhase";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/java
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/java
     ln -s ${jar} $out/lib/java/clooj.jar
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/default.nix
index f829beda7ba..f68b89f0398 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/clojure/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "ant";
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/lib/java
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/java
     install -t $out/lib/java clojure.jar
   ";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/groovy/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/groovy/default.nix
index cc994aeea34..593cc61dc41 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/groovy/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/groovy/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     rm bin/*.bat
     mv * $out
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/j/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/j/default.nix
index 3be0e8aa117..d4a1ab85b13 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/j/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/j/default.nix
@@ -53,11 +53,11 @@ rec {
   '' ["doUnpack" "addInputs" "minInit"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     cp -r j/bin "$out/bin"
     rm "$out/bin/profilex_template.ijs"
     
-    ensureDir "$out/share/j"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/j"
 
     cp -r docs j/addons j/system "$out/share/j"
   '' ["doUnpack" "doBuildJ" "minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/jruby/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/jruby/default.nix
index d26ab694934..1e402e14e7d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/jruby/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/jruby/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sha256 = "1q3cjshxk484i8gqxm682bxcrps7205nl9vlim4s6z827bjlmc4a";
   };
 
-  installPhase = '' ensureDir $out; cp -r * $out '';
+  installPhase = '' mkdir -p $out; cp -r * $out '';
 
   meta = { 
     description = "Ruby interpreter written in Java";
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/kona/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/kona/default.nix
index 2e433e11033..7e4f1e408b4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/kona/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/kona/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ rec {
   makeFlags = ["PREFIX=\$out"];
 
   prepareOut = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
   '' ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
       
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/lua-5/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/lua-5/default.nix
index 06703e12210..c11a9d10d7b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/lua-5/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/lua-5/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   postInstall = ''
     sed -i -e "s@/usr/local@$out@" etc/lua.pc
     sed -i -e "s@-llua -lm@-llua -lm -ldl@" etc/lua.pc
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/pkgconfig"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/pkgconfig"
     install -m 644 etc/lua.pc $out/lib/pkgconfig/lua.pc
   '';
   buildInputs = [ ncurses readline ];
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/maude/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/maude/default.nix
index f5d4fd09015..de1a14b522b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/maude/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/maude/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   postInstall =
   ''
     for n in "$out/bin/"*; do wrapProgram "$n" --suffix MAUDE_LIB ':' "$out/share/maude"; done
-    ensureDir $out/share/maude
+    mkdir -p $out/share/maude
     cp ${fullMaude} $out/share/maude/full-maude.maude
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/perl/5.8/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/perl/5.8/default.nix
index 4b965999910..c421e2768cd 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/perl/5.8/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/perl/5.8/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ preBuild() {
 }
 
 postInstall() {
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
     cp $setupHook $out/nix-support/setup-hook
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/php-xdebug/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/php-xdebug/default.nix
index 74aba643ee7..5a242f3c85a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/php-xdebug/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/php-xdebug/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/xdebug
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/xdebug
     cp modules/xdebug.so $out/lib
     cp LICENSE $out/lib/xdebug
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/picolisp/default.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/picolisp/default.nix
index 298c12d271a..196e7068e14 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/picolisp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/picolisp/default.nix
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@ rec {
 
     sed -e "s@/usr/@$out/@g" -i bin/pil
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/picolisp" "$out/lib" "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/picolisp" "$out/lib" "$out/bin"
     cp -r . "$out/share/picolisp/build-dir"
     ln -s "$out/share/picolisp/build-dir" "$out/lib/picolisp"
     ln -s "$out/lib/picolisp/bin/picolisp" "$out/bin/picolisp"
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/pythonhome-wrapper.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/pythonhome-wrapper.nix
index 2afbafe7b91..c9cf6277b24 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/pythonhome-wrapper.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/pythonhome-wrapper.nix
@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   unpackPhase = "true";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     echo '
 #!/bin/sh
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/wrapper.nix b/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/wrapper.nix
index 6f29f79e2c1..727b9cbc676 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/wrapper.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/python/wrapper.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   unpackPhase = "true";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     for prg in 2to3 idle pydoc python python-config python${python.majorVersion} python${python.majorVersion}-config smtpd.py; do
       makeWrapper "$python/bin/$prg" "$out/bin/$prg" --suffix PYTHONPATH : "$PYTHONPATH"
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/development/interpreters/spidermonkey/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/interpreters/spidermonkey/builder.sh
index b0cfe6c9ed6..91110159665 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/interpreters/spidermonkey/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/interpreters/spidermonkey/builder.sh
@@ -22,9 +22,9 @@ $MAKE printlibraries
 $MAKE printprograms
 $MAKE
 
-ensureDir $out
-ensureDir $out/bin
-ensureDir $out/lib
+mkdir -p $out
+mkdir -p $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/lib
 
 # Install the binaries that have been created.
 install $(cat PROGRAMS) $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/Xaw3d/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/Xaw3d/builder.sh
index afd640b625d..ff42e47ea56 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/Xaw3d/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/Xaw3d/builder.sh
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ installPhase() {
     make install SHLIBDIR=$out/lib USRLIBDIR=$out/lib INCDIR=$out/include
     cd $out/include/X11 && ln -s Xaw3d Xaw
 
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
     echo "$propagatedBuildInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs"
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/box2d/2.0.1.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/box2d/2.0.1.nix
index 9aa08caf00f..c15e27695ac 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/box2d/2.0.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/box2d/2.0.1.nix
@@ -48,14 +48,14 @@ rec {
   '';
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out"/lib
-    ensureDir "$out"/include/Box2D
+    mkdir -p "$out"/lib
+    mkdir -p "$out"/include/Box2D
     cp Library/* Source/Gen/float/lib*.{a,so} "$out"/lib
     cp -r Source "$out"/include/Box2D/Source
     find "$out"/include/Box2D/Source ! -name '*.h' -exec rm '{}' ';'
     sed -e s@../Source@Box2D/Source@ -i Include/Box2D.h
     cp Include/Box2D.h "$out"/include/Box2D
-    ensureDir "$out/share"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share"
     cp -r Examples "$out/share"
   '' ["minInit" "addInputs" "doMake" "defEnsureDir"];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/chipmunk/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/chipmunk/default.nix
index 5dbb31e9bce..d5471b9be75 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/chipmunk/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/chipmunk/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["minInit" "addInputs" "doUnpack"];
 
   demoInstall = fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp Demo/chipmunk_demos $out/bin
   '') ["doMakeInstall" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/clapack/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/clapack/default.nix
index a40044ee3a3..d1c081f45d8 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/clapack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/clapack/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildNativeInputs = [ cmake ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include $out/lib
     cp SRC/*.a F2CLIBS/libf2c/*.a BLAS/SRC/*.a $out/lib
     cp ../INCLUDE/* $out/include
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/cminpack/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/cminpack/default.nix
index f070f2dfaef..121f41a0f3c 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/cminpack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/cminpack/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib $out/include
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx35/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx35/default.nix
index 7ac4568a4e1..e1c59846aec 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx35/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx35/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ in
     name = "dotnetfx-3.5";
     src = "${windir}/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v3.5";
     buildCommand = ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       ln -s $src/MSBuild.exe $out/bin
     '';
   };
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx40/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx40/default.nix
index b9ce4738d12..701464071d0 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx40/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/dotnetfx40/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ in
     name = "dotnetfx-4.0";
     src = "${windir}/Microsoft.NET/Framework/v4.0.30319";
     buildCommand = ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       ln -s $src/MSBuild.exe $out/bin
     '';
   };
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/eglibc/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/eglibc/builder.sh
index 47cd1b5e252..6ac1d223b47 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/eglibc/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/eglibc/builder.sh
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ preConfigure() {
     done
 
     # Include source for debugging
-    ensureDir $out/src
+    mkdir -p $out/src
     cp -R libc ports $out/src
     ln -s $out/src/ports $out/src/libc/ports
     # glibc wants -O2 minimum
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glfw/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glfw/default.nix
index 1454d2ec94a..1f4df39408e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glfw/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glfw/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ mesa libX11 libXext ];
 
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     make x11-install PREFIX=$out
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/default.nix
index 31a8ef13a4f..95778b50b70 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ in
     # any special hack.
     preInstall = ''
       if [ -f ${stdenv.gcc.gcc}/lib/libgcc_s.so.1 ]; then
-          ensureDir $out/lib
+          mkdir -p $out/lib
           ln -s ${stdenv.gcc.gcc}/lib/libgcc_s.so.1 $out/lib/libgcc_s.so.1
       fi
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/info.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/info.nix
index 84a16fefce9..75bd996d9bc 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/info.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/info.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ in
     # Somehow building the info still does not work, because the final
     # libc.info hasn't a Top node.
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
       cp -v "../$sourceRoot/manual/"*.info* "$out/share/info"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/locales.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/locales.nix
index d598e0e094d..b7eae50ca38 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/locales.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.13/locales.nix
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ in
 
     installPhase =
       ''
-        ensureDir "$out/lib/locale"
+        mkdir -p "$out/lib/locale"
         cp -v "$TMPDIR/nix/store/"*"/lib/locale/locale-archive" "$out/lib/locale"
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/default.nix
index 31a8ef13a4f..95778b50b70 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ in
     # any special hack.
     preInstall = ''
       if [ -f ${stdenv.gcc.gcc}/lib/libgcc_s.so.1 ]; then
-          ensureDir $out/lib
+          mkdir -p $out/lib
           ln -s ${stdenv.gcc.gcc}/lib/libgcc_s.so.1 $out/lib/libgcc_s.so.1
       fi
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/info.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/info.nix
index 84a16fefce9..75bd996d9bc 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/info.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/info.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ in
     # Somehow building the info still does not work, because the final
     # libc.info hasn't a Top node.
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
       cp -v "../$sourceRoot/manual/"*.info* "$out/share/info"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/locales.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/locales.nix
index d598e0e094d..b7eae50ca38 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/locales.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.14/locales.nix
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ in
 
     installPhase =
       ''
-        ensureDir "$out/lib/locale"
+        mkdir -p "$out/lib/locale"
         cp -v "$TMPDIR/nix/store/"*"/lib/locale/locale-archive" "$out/lib/locale"
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/default.nix
index 0cfad299038..b778743147e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/default.nix
@@ -81,7 +81,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildNativeInputs = stdenv.lib.optionals (cross != null) [ gccCross ];
 
   preInstall = if (cross != null) then ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     ln -s ${stdenv.gcc.gcc}/lib/libgcc_s.so.1 $out/lib/libgcc_s.so.1
   '' else "";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/info.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/info.nix
index 3201bb47440..cc79bbece3d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/info.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/info.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   # Somehow building the info still does not work, because the final
   # libc.info hasn't a Top node.
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/info
+    mkdir -p $out/share/info
     cp ../$sourceRoot/manual/*.info $out/share/info
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/locales.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/locales.nix
index 3046374ca34..c7b1bb2bff0 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/locales.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/glibc-2.9/locales.nix
@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/locale
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/locale
       cp $TMPDIR/nix/store/*/lib/locale/locale-archive $out/lib/locale/
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/gsm/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/gsm/default.nix
index c01987bcc59..04fbb01a3bf 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/gsm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/gsm/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["createDirs" "setVars" "doMakeInstall"];
 
   createDirs = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/"{bin,lib,share/man,share/info,include/gsm}
+    mkdir -p "$out/"{bin,lib,share/man,share/info,include/gsm}
   '' ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   setVars = a.noDepEntry ''
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/haskell/cabal/cabal.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/haskell/cabal/cabal.nix
index 3f5bac4d7e4..567e5e2300a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/haskell/cabal/cabal.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/haskell/cabal/cabal.nix
@@ -126,12 +126,12 @@
 
               ./Setup copy
 
-              ensureDir $out/bin # necessary to get it added to PATH
+              mkdir -p $out/bin # necessary to get it added to PATH
 
               local confDir=$out/lib/ghc-pkgs/ghc-${ghc.ghc.version}
               local installedPkgConf=$confDir/${self.fname}.installedconf
               local pkgConf=$confDir/${self.fname}.conf
-              ensureDir $confDir
+              mkdir -p $confDir
               ./Setup register --gen-pkg-config=$pkgConf
               if test -f $pkgConf; then
                 echo '[]' > $installedPkgConf
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/hawknl/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/hawknl/default.nix
index 76f4a5a7dae..78206de9f14 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/hawknl/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/hawknl/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preInstall = ''
     sed -i s,/usr/local,$out, src/makefile.linux
-    ensureDir $out/lib $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib $out/include
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/iniparser/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/iniparser/default.nix
index 9b45dbb91ec..55c4dbff296 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/iniparser/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/iniparser/default.nix
@@ -13,14 +13,14 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec{
   buildFlags = "libiniparser.so";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp libiniparser.so.0 $out/lib
     ln -s libiniparser.so.0 $out/lib/libiniparser.so
 
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     cp src/*.h $out/include
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/doc/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/share/doc/${name}
     for i in AUTHORS INSTALL LICENSE README; do
       bzip2 -c -9 $i > $out/share/doc/${name}/$i.bz2;
     done;
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/geoipjava/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/geoipjava/default.nix
index f713ef2f645..9cd61adf775 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/geoipjava/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/geoipjava/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     '';
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/java
+      mkdir -p $out/share/java
       cp maxmindgeoip.jar $out/share/java
     '';
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-dragdrop/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-dragdrop/builder.sh
index 605daff0cc8..d37e110011e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-dragdrop/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-dragdrop/builder.sh
@@ -1,4 +1,4 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/share/java
+mkdir -p $out/share/java
 cp $src $out/share/java/$name.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-widgets/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-widgets/builder.sh
index f8961eb4f04..8c2502385f2 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-widgets/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/gwt-widgets/builder.sh
@@ -2,5 +2,5 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 tar xfvz $src
 cd gwt-widgets-*
-ensureDir $out/share/java
+mkdir -p $out/share/java
 cp gwt-widgets-*.jar $out/share/java
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hsqldb/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hsqldb/builder.sh
index 2f146a52348..d7de23ab95e 100755
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hsqldb/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hsqldb/builder.sh
@@ -2,5 +2,5 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 unzip $src
 cd hsqldb*
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 cp -R * $out/
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hydra-ant-logger/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hydra-ant-logger/default.nix
index bb8c67285c5..1439c6101ab 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hydra-ant-logger/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/hydra-ant-logger/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = '' 
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/java"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/java"
     cp -v *.jar "$out/lib/java"
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-gwt/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-gwt/default.nix
index e384e35b23f..03433048270 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-gwt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-gwt/default.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sha256 = "17x8ss75rx9xjn93rq861mdn9d6gw87rbrf24blawa6ahhb56ppf";
   };
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/java
+    mkdir -p $out/share/java
     cp $src $out/share/java/$name.jar
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-util/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-util/default.nix
index 8f1f676c107..349339aad44 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-util/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/jetty-util/default.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sha256 = "1ld94lb5dk7y6sjg1rq8zdk97wiy56ik5vbgy7yjj4f6rz5pxbyq";
   };
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/java
+    mkdir -p $out/share/java
     cp $src $out/share/java/$name.jar
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/rhino/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/rhino/default.nix
index 300266fff5c..800ae7ba718 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/rhino/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/rhino/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ in
       '' find -name \*.jar -or -name \*.class -exec rm -v {} \;
 
          # The build process tries to download it by itself.
-         ensureDir "build/tmp-xbean"
+         mkdir -p "build/tmp-xbean"
          ln -sv "${xbeans}" "build/tmp-xbean/xbean.zip"
       '';
 
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ in
 
     # FIXME: Install javadoc as well.
     installPhase =
-      '' ensureDir "$out/lib/java"
+      '' mkdir -p "$out/lib/java"
          cp -v *.jar "$out/lib/java"
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/saxon/default8.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/saxon/default8.nix
index ab67fc6b893..bf1ee340d46 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/saxon/default8.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/saxon/default8.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   buildCommand = "
     unzip $src -d $out
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cat > $out/bin/saxon8 <<EOF
 #! $shell
 export JAVA_HOME=${jre}
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/smack/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/smack/builder.sh
index 276e3f6e6a9..bf86d59497e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/smack/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/smack/builder.sh
@@ -2,5 +2,5 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 tar xfvz $src
 cd smack*
-ensureDir $out/share/java
+mkdir -p $out/share/java
 cp *.jar $out/share/java
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/swt/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/swt/builder.sh
index 0a2f304801e..9f678d7158b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/swt/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/swt/builder.sh
@@ -7,12 +7,12 @@ export JAVA_HOME=${jdk}
 echo $JAVA_HOME=${jdk}
 sh ./build.sh make_swt make_atk
 
-ensureDir $out/lib
+mkdir -p $out/lib
 cp *.so $out/lib
 
 mkdir out
 javac -d out/ $(find org/ -name "*.java")
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 cp version.txt out/
 cd out && jar -c * > $out/jars/swt.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xalanj/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xalanj/default.nix
index ededecdf0e5..0aee98d27bd 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xalanj/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xalanj/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ in
 
     # FIXME: Install javadoc as well.
     installPhase =
-      '' ensureDir "$out/lib/java"
+      '' mkdir -p "$out/lib/java"
          cp -v build/x*.jar "$out/lib/java"
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xerces/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xerces/default.nix
index 545bb21508c..a40c30ae6c7 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xerces/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/java/xerces/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ in
 
     # FIXME: Install javadoc as well.
     installPhase =
-      '' ensureDir "$out/lib/java"
+      '' mkdir -p "$out/lib/java"
          cp -v build/xerces*.jar "$out/lib/java"
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/levmar/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/levmar/default.nix
index a17cdf0b4d5..3028ba7367c 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/levmar/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/levmar/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include $out/lib
     cp lm.h $out/include
     cp liblevmar.a $out/lib
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdnav/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdnav/default.nix
index 7d6ddd61581..4ba938911a4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdnav/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdnav/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   configureScript = "./configure2"; # wtf?
 
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdread/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdread/default.nix
index 30fd6835dfb..ee5d2e5e50e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdread/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libdvdread/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   configureScript = "./configure2"; # wtf?
 
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
   '';
 
   postInstall = ''
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libf2c/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libf2c/default.nix
index b14809d47bf..edcf177add7 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libf2c/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libf2c/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   makeFlags = "-f makefile.u";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include $out/lib
     cp libf2c.a $out/lib
     cp f2c.h $out/include
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libmilter/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libmilter/default.nix
index 508827b9b3d..c8fa978534d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libmilter/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libmilter/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   buildPhase = '' 
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cd libmilter
     cat > a.m4 <<EOF
       define(\`confEBINDIR', \`$out/libexec')
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libopensc-dnie/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libopensc-dnie/default.nix
index a3a6a6423d8..ad524c21ff1 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libopensc-dnie/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libopensc-dnie/default.nix
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
     sed -i s,/usr,$out, usr/lib/pkgconfig/*
    
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R usr/lib $out
     cp -R usr/share $out
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libpcap/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libpcap/default.nix
index 7ec95f03eff..c6446ab27a5 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libpcap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libpcap/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   
   configureFlags = "--with-pcap=linux";
 
-  preInstall = ''ensureDir $out/bin'';
+  preInstall = ''mkdir -p $out/bin'';
   
   patches = [ ./libpcap_amd64.patch ];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libpseudo/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libpseudo/default.nix
index 4e13e5768f8..29a8c459c34 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libpseudo/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libpseudo/default.nix
@@ -12,8 +12,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [pkgconfig glib ncurses];
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libviper/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libviper/default.nix
index b9dbaf23512..b292580e705 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libviper/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libviper/default.nix
@@ -12,8 +12,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [pkgconfig glib ncurses gpm];
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libvterm/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libvterm/default.nix
index b449d9c3ed3..20433ab1458 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libvterm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libvterm/default.nix
@@ -12,8 +12,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [pkgconfig glib ncurses];
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/libxslt/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/libxslt/default.nix
index 46dc1435bcd..05ce8019c4e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/libxslt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/libxslt/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [libxml2];
   
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     ln -s ${libxml2}/nix-support/setup-hook $out/nix-support/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/ncbi/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/ncbi/default.nix
index dd0dab46b76..0b795e78ad5 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/ncbi/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/ncbi/default.nix
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["preBuild" "addInputs"];
 
   deploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib $out/include $out/source $out/share/${name}/build-snapshot
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib $out/include $out/source $out/share/${name}/build-snapshot
     cd ncbi/build
     cp *.o *.so $out/lib
     cp -r . $out/share/${name}/build-snapshot
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/opencascade/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/opencascade/default.nix
index ca792ed4c91..e03b9409cfa 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/opencascade/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/opencascade/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postInstall = ''
     mv $out/inc $out/include
-    ensureDir $out/share/doc/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/share/doc/${name}
     cp -R ../doc $out/share/doc/${name}
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/pdf2xml/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/pdf2xml/default.nix
index 6179742b42f..0f9a3dc2b2d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/pdf2xml/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/pdf2xml/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp exe/* $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/postgis/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/postgis/default.nix
index 016bd23cf1c..b4c8a7f1789 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/postgis/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/postgis/default.nix
@@ -74,7 +74,7 @@ let
       s=$out/bin/pg_db_postgis_enable
 
       sql_comments=$out/share/postgis-${version}/comments.sql
-      ensureDir $(dirname $sql_comments)
+      mkdir -p $(dirname $sql_comments)
       cp $(find -iname ${fix.fixed.sql_comments}) $sql_comments
 
       for script in $scriptNames; do
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/qtscriptgenerator/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/qtscriptgenerator/default.nix
index 913f4acdc7d..e231c20e7a3 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/qtscriptgenerator/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/qtscriptgenerator/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   
   installPhase = ''
     cd ..
-    ensureDir $out/lib/qt4/plugins/script
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/qt4/plugins/script
     cp -av plugins/script/* $out/lib/qt4/plugins/script
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/science/math/liblapack/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/science/math/liblapack/default.nix
index a731360be56..3537dd3b4af 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/science/math/liblapack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/science/math/liblapack/default.nix
@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/lib"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib"
     install -m755 *.a* "$out/lib"
     install -m755 *.so* "$out/lib"
     ln -sf liblapack.so.3 "$out/lib/liblapack.so"
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/scmccid/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/scmccid/default.nix
index 01dc63353d6..f18107c48a5 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/scmccid/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/scmccid/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
         fi
     done
 
-    ensureDir $out/pcsc/drivers
+    mkdir -p $out/pcsc/drivers
     cp -R proprietary/* $out/pcsc/drivers
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/slib/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/slib/default.nix
index 952d4ba9f25..4c615b81552 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/slib/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/slib/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ unzip scheme texinfo ];
 
   configurePhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     sed -i "Makefile" \
         -e "s|^[[:blank:]]*prefix[[:blank:]]*=.*$|prefix = $out/|g"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/snack/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/snack/default.nix
index 7776b4d0259..4e1187aa0f7 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/snack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/snack/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   postInstall = "aoeu";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     make install DESTDIR="$out" 
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/speech-tools/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/speech-tools/default.nix
index 211eecde4e4..8874a672ead 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/speech-tools/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/speech-tools/default.nix
@@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["minInit" "doUnpack"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out"/{bin,lib}
+    mkdir -p "$out"/{bin,lib}
     for d in bin lib; do
       for i in ./$d/*; do
         test "$(basename "$i")" = "Makefile" ||
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/sphinxbase/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/sphinxbase/default.nix
index b025e9a68a9..dafa82bad34 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/sphinxbase/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/sphinxbase/default.nix
@@ -25,10 +25,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
   outputs = [ "out" "lib" "headers" ];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $lib
+    mkdir -p $lib
     cp -av $out/lib* $lib
 
-    ensureDir $headers
+    mkdir -p $headers
     cp -av $out/include $headers
   '';
 }))
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/suitesparse/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/suitesparse/default.nix
index 00558fc52e9..d1611cda623 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/suitesparse/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/suitesparse/default.nix
@@ -14,8 +14,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     export PREFIX=$out
-    ensureDir $out/lib
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/include
   '';
 
   NIX_CFLAGS = "-fPIC";
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/tcp-wrappers/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/tcp-wrappers/default.nix
index 1cb6472971c..14335e6a3ad 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/tcp-wrappers/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/tcp-wrappers/default.nix
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["minInit"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out"/{sbin,lib}
+    mkdir -p "$out"/{sbin,lib}
     make libwrap.so
     cp libwrap.{a,so} "$out/lib"
     find . -perm +111 -a ! -name '*.*' -exec cp '{}' "$out/sbin" ';'
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/ti-rpc/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/ti-rpc/default.nix
index 1fbfdc58fce..e669f8a254f 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/ti-rpc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/ti-rpc/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   preConfigure =
     '' sed -es"|/etc/netconfig|$out/etc/netconfig|g" -i "Makefile.in"
     '';
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/etc";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/etc";
 
   doCheck = true;
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/v8/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/v8/default.nix
index 9e60f1ce8ba..b67b015e018 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/v8/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/v8/default.nix
@@ -23,8 +23,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     '';
     
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
-      ensureDir $out/lib
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/lib
       
       cp -v libv8.* $out/lib
       cp -v shell $out/bin/v8-shell
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/default.nix
index 63c6574d32a..2daa1796318 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/default.nix
@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack"];
 
   doAddPrograms = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for i in Programs/.libs/* Programs/*; do 
         cp $i $out/bin/webkit-program-$(basename $i) || true
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/svn.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/svn.nix
index 5eaaeec3d16..d41d4683d6e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/svn.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/webkit/svn.nix
@@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack"];
 
   doAddPrograms = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for i in Programs/.libs/* Programs/*; do 
         cp $i $out/bin/webkit-program-$(basename $i) || true
     done
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/wtk/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/libraries/wtk/builder.sh
index 5ccfc1a7391..6db9469e46d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/wtk/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/wtk/builder.sh
@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ pushd unzipped
 unzip $src || true
 popd
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 mv unzipped/* $out/
 
 # Remove crap in the root directory.
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/1.0.x.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/1.0.x.nix
index 3417596c393..b6bc94814e6 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/1.0.x.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/1.0.x.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} rec {
             # export same env vars as in pythonNew
             preConfigure = ''
               export PYTHON_LIB=$out/lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages
-              ensureDir $out/nix-support
+              mkdir -p $out/nix-support
               echo "export NIX_PYTHON_SITES=\"$out:\$NIX_PYTHON_SITES\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
               echo "export PYTHONPATH=\"$PYTHON_LIB:\$PYTHONPATH\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
             '';
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} rec {
              preConfigure = ''
                export RUBY_LIB=$out/${ruby.libPath}
                export RUBY_LIB_ARCH=$RUBY_LIB
-               ensureDir $out/nix-support
+               mkdir -p $out/nix-support
                echo "export RUBYLIB=\"$RUBY_LIB:\$RUBYLIB\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
                echo "export GEM_PATH=\"$out:\$GEM_PATH\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
              '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/default.nix
index bb7643330a0..93d31ada975 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/xapian/bindings/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} rec {
             # export same env vars as in pythonNew
             preConfigure = ''
               export PYTHON_LIB=$out/lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages
-              ensureDir $out/nix-support
+              mkdir -p $out/nix-support
               echo "export NIX_PYTHON_SITES=\"$out:\$NIX_PYTHON_SITES\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
               echo "export PYTHONPATH=\"$PYTHON_LIB:\$PYTHONPATH\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
             '';
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} rec {
              preConfigure = ''
                export RUBY_LIB=$out/${ruby.libPath}
                export RUBY_LIB_ARCH=$RUBY_LIB
-               ensureDir $out/nix-support
+               mkdir -p $out/nix-support
                echo "export RUBYLIB=\"$RUBY_LIB:\$RUBYLIB\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
                echo "export GEM_PATH=\"$out:\$GEM_PATH\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook 
              '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/libraries/xlibs-wrapper/default.nix b/pkgs/development/libraries/xlibs-wrapper/default.nix
index d8bc32350fb..07220d6e1a6 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/libraries/xlibs-wrapper/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/libraries/xlibs-wrapper/default.nix
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@
 stdenv.mkDerivation {
   name = "xlibs-wrapper";
   buildPhase = "true";
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out";
   unpackPhase = "sourceRoot=.";
   propagatedBuildInputs = packages;
 } // {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/misc/avr8-burn-omat/default.nix b/pkgs/development/misc/avr8-burn-omat/default.nix
index 7c9fb19c275..f79483874f6 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/misc/avr8-burn-omat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/misc/avr8-burn-omat/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # move to nix-support to not create that many symlinks..
   # TODO burnomat tries to read /usr/local/etc/avrdude.conf (but you can edit it within the settings dialog)
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{nix-support,bin}
+    mkdir -p $out/{nix-support,bin}
     mv *.jar license_gpl-3.0.txt lib *.xml *.png $out/nix-support
     cat >> $out/bin/avr8-burn-omat << EOF
       #!/bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/development/misc/windows-sdk/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/misc/windows-sdk/builder.sh
index e8344798826..8f1eaffbcaf 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/misc/windows-sdk/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/misc/windows-sdk/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 n=1
 for p in $srcs; do
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ done
 while read target; do
     read source
     echo "$source -> $target"
-    ensureDir "$out/$(dirname "$target")"
+    mkdir -p "$out/$(dirname "$target")"
     cp "$source" "$out/$target"
 done < $filemap
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/batteries/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/batteries/default.nix
index a7c96f1d2ea..3ecf2ae4699 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/batteries/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/batteries/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   configurePhase = "true"; 	# Skip configure
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib"
   '';
 
   doCheck = true;
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/cryptokit/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/cryptokit/default.nix
index 8aa3f2ba77e..48e86ed9a68 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/cryptokit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/cryptokit/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   buildFlags = "setup.data build";
 
-  preBuild = "ensureDir $out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/cryptokit";
+  preBuild = "mkdir -p $out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/cryptokit";
 
   meta = {
     homepage = "http://pauillac.inria.fr/~xleroy/software.html";
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/lablgtkmathview/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/lablgtkmathview/default.nix
index 13c25495cdc..976910aae29 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/lablgtkmathview/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/lablgtkmathview/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir .test
+    mkdir -p .test
     make
     make opt
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/sqlite3/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
index 9b477fed851..1903068bb0b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ocaml-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     export OCAMLPATH=$OCAMLPATH:$OCAMLFIND_DESTDIR
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '';
 
   createFindlibDestdir = true;
diff --git a/pkgs/development/perl-modules/DB_File/default.nix b/pkgs/development/perl-modules/DB_File/default.nix
index adf66a44806..858d459f5ca 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/perl-modules/DB_File/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/perl-modules/DB_File/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ buildPerlPackage {
   # lib/perl5/site_perl, and the *.pm should be inside lib/perl5/site_perl/...
   # for other packages to get that in the PERL5LIB env var.
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/perl5/site_perl/
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/perl5/site_perl/
     cp -R $out/lib/perl5/5* $out/lib/perl5/site_perl
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/development/python-modules/generic/default.nix b/pkgs/development/python-modules/generic/default.nix
index 46149177320..4e0b6100231 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/python-modules/generic/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/python-modules/generic/default.nix
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ python.stdenv.mkDerivation (attrs // {
   # XXX: Should we run `easy_install --always-unzip'?  It doesn't seem
   # to have a noticeable impact on small scripts.
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages"
 
     echo "installing \`${name}' with \`easy_install'..."
     export PYTHONPATH="$out/lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages:$PYTHONPATH"
diff --git a/pkgs/development/python-modules/xmpppy/default.nix b/pkgs/development/python-modules/xmpppy/default.nix
index 3fc8058dfb2..df5d37853f7 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/python-modules/xmpppy/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/python-modules/xmpppy/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ rec {
   /* doConfigure should be removed if not needed */
   phaseNames = ["mkDirs" "installPythonPackage"];
   mkDirs = a.fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib $out/share $(toPythonPath $out)
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib $out/share $(toPythonPath $out)
     export PYTHONPATH=$PYTHONPATH:$(toPythonPath $out)
   '') ["defEnsureDir" "addInputs"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/rake/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/rake/default.nix
index 00bad68b695..e1cec53aaa0 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/rake/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/rake/default.nix
@@ -14,8 +14,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   buildPhase = "true";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     export DESTDIR=$out
     ruby install.rb
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/sqlite3/default.nix b/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
index a37e91c488f..33a8951921e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/ruby-modules/sqlite3/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ruby sqlite];
   buildPhase = "true";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     ruby setup.rb config --prefix=$out 
     # --bindir $out/bin --libdir $out/lib
     ruby setup.rb setup
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/checkstyle/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/checkstyle/default.nix
index 17fc8de8c95..09656dc520a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/checkstyle/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/checkstyle/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/checkstyle
+    mkdir -p $out/checkstyle
     cp -R * $out/checkstyle
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/emma/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/emma/default.nix
index 97e061d6b3f..8275beff88d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/emma/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/emma/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [unzip];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib/jars
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/jars
     cp lib/*.jar $out/lib/jars/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/findbugs/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/findbugs/default.nix
index cf4f87f528e..0623632936d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/findbugs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/findbugs/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -prd bin lib plugin doc $out/
     rm $out/bin/*.bat
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/jdepend/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/jdepend/default.nix
index 6973fbad9e7..7498d3b652a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/jdepend/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/jdepend/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R * $out
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/pmd/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/pmd/default.nix
index 7f50431c8d9..b830ee00838 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/pmd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/pmd/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R * $out
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/spin/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/spin/default.nix
index cedd9584414..b4fdd4c09d4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/spin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/analysis/spin/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sed -i -e 's/-DNXT/-DNXT -DCPP="\\"gcc -E -x c\\""/' makefile
   '';
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp ../Xspin*/xsp* $out/bin/xspin
     sed -i -e '1s@^#!/bin/sh@#!${tk}/bin/wish@' \
       -e '/exec wish/d' $out/bin/xspin
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/apache-ant/from-source.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/apache-ant/from-source.nix
index a5a19a67143..ef6763a0fa2 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/apache-ant/from-source.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/apache-ant/from-source.nix
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ EOF
 
   # Note: We don't build the javadoc.
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     ./build.sh -Dant.install="$out" install-lite
   '';
 
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ EOF
     # rearrange a few things.
     rm -v "$out/bin/"*.bat
 
-    ensureDir "$out/lib/java"
+    mkdir -p "$out/lib/java"
     mv -v "$out/lib/"*.jar "$out/lib/java"
     sed -i "$out/bin/ant" \
         -e "s|^ANT_LIB=.*$|ANT_LIB=$out/lib/java|g ;
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/bam/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/bam/default.nix
index ef5aed1f26e..e7e4b6d0909 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/bam/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/bam/default.nix
@@ -38,9 +38,9 @@ rec {
   '' ["build" "addInputs"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/bam"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/bam"
     cp -r docs examples tests  "$out/share/bam"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp bam "$out/bin"
   '' ["minInit" "defEnsureDir" "build"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/buildbot/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/buildbot/default.nix
index 92b63869f33..71862ec1cf7 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/buildbot/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/buildbot/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ buildPythonPackage (rec {
   doCheck = false;
 
   postInstall =
-    '' ensureDir "$out/share/info"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/share/info"
        make -C docs buildbot.info
        cp -v "docs/buildbot.info"* "$out/share/info"
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/gradle/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/gradle/default.nix
index 9fc25aad64d..576d8e357f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/gradle/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/gradle/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     rm bin/*.bat
     mv * $out
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/jam/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/jam/default.nix
index d2a002a70cf..6324fa92cbd 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/jam/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/build-managers/jam/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp bin.linux/jam $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cbrowser/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cbrowser/default.nix
index 50dc907a780..bf927db2793 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cbrowser/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cbrowser/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ tk makeWrapper ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/${name}
     cp -R * $out/share/${name}/
 
     makeWrapper $out/share/${name}/cbrowser $out/bin/cbrowser \
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cscope/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cscope/default.nix
index c27c7ab291a..3cba5cd2e76 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cscope/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/cscope/default.nix
@@ -24,10 +24,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     # Install Emacs mode.
     cd "contrib/xcscope"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/libexec/cscope"
+    mkdir -p "$out/libexec/cscope"
     cp "cscope-indexer" "$out/libexec/cscope"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     emacs --batch --eval '(byte-compile-file "xcscope.el")'
     cp xcscope.el{,c} "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/global/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/global/default.nix
index fef5a71201a..6e6464a590b 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/global/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/global/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   doCheck = true;
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
     cp -v *.el "$out/share/emacs/site-lisp"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/lsof/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/lsof/default.nix
index f679577a3f1..69503782d6e 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/lsof/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/lsof/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   configurePhase = "./Configure -n linux;";
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/man/man8
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/man/man8
     cp lsof.8 $out/man/man8/
     cp lsof $out/bin
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/ninka/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/ninka/default.nix
index dddb577edbf..1cb491df8d1 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/ninka/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/ninka/default.nix
@@ -25,12 +25,12 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   
   installPhase = ''
     cd ../..
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp ninka.pl $out/bin
     cp -av {extComments,splitter,filter,senttok,matcher} $out/bin
     
     cd comments/comments    
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,share/man/man1}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,share/man/man1}
     make install    
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/sloccount/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/sloccount/default.nix
index 906770e9066..e7adb30d316 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/sloccount/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/sloccount/default.nix
@@ -37,9 +37,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   checkPhase = ''HOME="$TMPDIR" PATH="$PWD:$PATH" make test'';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
-    ensureDir "$out/share/man/man1"
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man1"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc"
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/unifdef/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/unifdef/default.nix
index 30afee4586b..f4b38f4f7ab 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/unifdef/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/unifdef/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp unifdef $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/usb-modeswitch/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/usb-modeswitch/default.nix
index a883024690a..48a823c3c65 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/misc/usb-modeswitch/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/misc/usb-modeswitch/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   preConfigure = ''
     find -type f | xargs sed 's@/bin/rm@rm@g' -i
     make clean
-    ensureDir $out/{etc,lib/udev,share/man/man1}
+    mkdir -p $out/{etc,lib/udev,share/man/man1}
     makeFlags="DESTDIR=$out PREFIX=$out"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/camlidl/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/camlidl/default.nix
index 8f77c0c6fc0..d049377ea94 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/camlidl/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/camlidl/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     mv config/Makefile.unix config/Makefile
     substituteInPlace config/Makefile --replace BINDIR=/usr/local/bin BINDIR=$out
     substituteInPlace config/Makefile --replace OCAMLLIB=/usr/local/lib/ocaml OCAMLLIB=$out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/camlidl
-    ensureDir $out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/camlidl/caml
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/camlidl/caml
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/findlib/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/findlib/default.nix
index 70fb45a1979..c89af03097d 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/findlib/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/ocaml/findlib/default.nix
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
         fi
         export OCAMLFIND_DESTDIR="''$out/lib/ocaml/${ocaml_version}/site-lib/"
         if test -n "$createFindlibDestdir"; then
-          ensureDir $OCAMLFIND_DESTDIR
+          mkdir -p $OCAMLFIND_DESTDIR
         fi
     }
     
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/antlr/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/antlr/builder.sh
index 1d9f352c569..b8e7791b6fc 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/antlr/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/antlr/builder.sh
@@ -4,8 +4,8 @@ tar zxvf $src
 cd antlr-*
 cd lib
 
-ensureDir $out/lib/antlr
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/lib/antlr
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 cp *.jar $out/lib/antlr
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/frown/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/frown/builder.sh
index 82689b42d72..075d2bc758c 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/frown/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/frown/builder.sh
@@ -2,6 +2,6 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 makeFlags="-e PREFIX=\"$out\""
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/jikespg/builder.sh b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/jikespg/builder.sh
index 090def7c464..e63ec9808f2 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/jikespg/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/parsing/jikespg/builder.sh
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ configurePhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-  ensureDir $out/bin
+  mkdir -p $out/bin
   cp jikespg $out/bin
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/development/tools/selenium/remote-control/default.nix b/pkgs/development/tools/selenium/remote-control/default.nix
index 0a7a12a6e17..fbe11ed2bc0 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/tools/selenium/remote-control/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/tools/selenium/remote-control/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ in stdenv.mkDerivation {
     buildInputs = [unzip];
     phases = "unpackPhase buildPhase";
     buildPhase = ''
-      ensureDir $out/{bin,lib}
+      mkdir -p $out/{bin,lib}
       mv * $out/lib
       bin="$out/bin/selenium-remote-control"
       cat >> "$bin" << EOF
@@ -37,7 +37,7 @@ in stdenv.mkDerivation {
     };
     phases = "buildPhase";
     buildPhase = ''
-      ensureDir $out/{bin,lib}
+      mkdir -p $out/{bin,lib}
       cp $src $out/lib/
       bin="$out/bin/selenium-remote-control"
       cat >> "$bin" << EOF
diff --git a/pkgs/development/web/csslint/default.nix b/pkgs/development/web/csslint/default.nix
index 6f09603b2d5..668ff6a7f4a 100644
--- a/pkgs/development/web/csslint/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/development/web/csslint/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     sed -i "s/path\.join/path\.resolve/g" cli.js # fixes csslint issue #167
-    ensureDir $out/bin;
+    mkdir -p $out/bin;
     cp -r * $out/bin
     mv $out/bin/cli.js $out/bin/csslint
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/banner/default.nix b/pkgs/games/banner/default.nix
index 73d08fda79f..3bb17b3e02f 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/banner/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/banner/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ let
     installPhase = ''
       make INSTBASEDIR=$out install
       if [ -d $out/man ]; then
-        ensureDir $out/share
+        mkdir -p $out/share
 	mv -v $out/man $out/share/
       fi
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/beret/default.nix b/pkgs/games/beret/default.nix
index e41e88fc1b0..2e252a5cd54 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/beret/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/beret/default.nix
@@ -22,9 +22,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     install -v -m755 beret $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     cp -av tahoma.ttf images music rooms sfx $out/share
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/games/blackshades/default.nix b/pkgs/games/blackshades/default.nix
index 8a79326bdea..61e8571c476 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/blackshades/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/blackshades/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/opt/$name
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/opt/$name
     cp objs/blackshades $out/bin
     cp -R Data IF* Readme $out/opt/$name/
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/blackshadeselite/default.nix b/pkgs/games/blackshadeselite/default.nix
index 64d94196c64..63139872cf9 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/blackshadeselite/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/blackshadeselite/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/opt/$name
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/opt/$name
     cp objs/blackshades $out/bin/blackshadeselite
     cp -R Data IF* Readme $out/opt/$name/
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/castle-combat/default.nix b/pkgs/games/castle-combat/default.nix
index 07778363fd5..6e1af276c1f 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/castle-combat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/castle-combat/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ buildPythonPackage rec {
   '';
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
     cp -rv "data/"* "$out/share/${name}"
 
     mv -v "$out/bin/castle-combat.py" "$out/bin/castle-combat"
diff --git a/pkgs/games/dwarf-fortress/default.nix b/pkgs/games/dwarf-fortress/default.nix
index f12caaae53f..9d363851148 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/dwarf-fortress/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/dwarf-fortress/default.nix
@@ -18,8 +18,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     set -x
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/share/df_linux
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/df_linux
     cp -r * $out/share/df_linux
     cp $permission $out/share/df_linux/nix_permission
  
diff --git a/pkgs/games/eduke32/default.nix b/pkgs/games/eduke32/default.nix
index b99f8b09b9d..6eab8acce75 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/eduke32/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/eduke32/default.nix
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     # Install binaries
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp eduke32 mapster32 $out/bin 
     
     # Make wrapper script
@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     chmod 755 $out/bin/eduke32-wrapper
     
     # Install desktop item
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     cp ${desktopItem}/share/applications/* $out/share/applications
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/games/egoboo/default.nix b/pkgs/games/egoboo/default.nix
index a1b7262f3b9..1f879393868 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/egoboo/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/egoboo/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   # The user will need to have all the files in '.' to run egoboo, with
   # writeable controls.txt and setup.txt
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}
     cp -v game/egoboo $out/share/${name}
     cd ..
     cp -v -Rd controls.txt setup.txt players modules basicdat $out/share/${name}
diff --git a/pkgs/games/exult/default.nix b/pkgs/games/exult/default.nix
index 4d712601435..e784cc109f5 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/exult/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/exult/default.nix
@@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postInstall =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/exult/music
+      mkdir -p $out/share/exult/music
       for i in $musicFiles; do
           unzip -o -d $out/share/exult/music $i
       done
diff --git a/pkgs/games/flightgear/default.nix b/pkgs/games/flightgear/default.nix
index a7d906ed9b8..fe90156d84c 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/flightgear/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/flightgear/default.nix
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doConfigure" "doMakeInstall" "deployData"];
 
   deployData = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/FlightGear"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/FlightGear"
     cd "$out/share/FlightGear"
     tar xvf ${datasrc}
   '' ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
diff --git a/pkgs/games/fsg/default.nix b/pkgs/games/fsg/default.nix
index 2752e565c58..ba6b65d602b 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/fsg/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/fsg/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/libexec
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/libexec
     cp sand $out/libexec
     echo -e '#! /bin/sh\nLC_ALL=C '$out'/libexec/sand "$@"' >$out/bin/fsg
     chmod a+x $out/bin/fsg
diff --git a/pkgs/games/icbm3d/default.nix b/pkgs/games/icbm3d/default.nix
index e5e5c94d460..ee792ef1e4d 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/icbm3d/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/icbm3d/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ libX11 ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp icbm3d $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/games/instead/default.nix b/pkgs/games/instead/default.nix
index d7fcb7a3f4e..0d46e187d7b 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/instead/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/instead/default.nix
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   inherit games;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/${name}
     cp sdl-instead $out/bin
     cp -R games languages stead themes $out/share/${name}
     pushd $out/share/${name}/games
diff --git a/pkgs/games/keen4/builder.sh b/pkgs/games/keen4/builder.sh
index f9c62c83ddd..50d261db865 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/keen4/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/games/keen4/builder.sh
@@ -1,9 +1,9 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/share/keen4
+mkdir -p $out/share/keen4
 unzip -j $dist -d $out/share/keen4
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cat > $out/bin/keen4 <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
 if test -z "\$HOME"; then
diff --git a/pkgs/games/mars/default.nix b/pkgs/games/mars/default.nix
index 991afca6180..34094b637fc 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/mars/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/mars/default.nix
@@ -10,8 +10,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   installPhase = ''
     cd ..
     find -name '*.svn' -exec rm -rf {} \;
-    ensureDir "$out/share/mars/"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/mars/"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin/"
     cp -rv data resources credits.txt license.txt "$out/share/mars/"
     cp -v mars "$out/bin/mars.bin"
     cat << EOF > "$out/bin/mars"
diff --git a/pkgs/games/naev/default.nix b/pkgs/games/naev/default.nix
index f6e571404d6..36ccbf98274 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/naev/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/naev/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE="-include ${zlib}/include/zlib.h";
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/naev
+    mkdir -p $out/share/naev
     cp -v $srcData $out/share/naev/ndata
     wrapProgram $out/bin/naev --add-flags $out/share/naev/ndata
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/nethack/default.nix b/pkgs/games/nethack/default.nix
index 0d68b681ba5..d817cf64323 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/nethack/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/nethack/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack"];
 
   postInstall = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ln -s $out/games/nethack $out/bin/nethack
     sed -i $out/bin/nethack -e '5aNEWHACKDIR="$HOME/.nethack"'
     sed -i $out/bin/nethack -e '6amkdir -p "$NEWHACKDIR/save"'
diff --git a/pkgs/games/neverball/default.nix b/pkgs/games/neverball/default.nix
index 7e2df42a293..1ebb4b69b6e 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/neverball/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/neverball/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   preConfigure = "export HOME=$TMPDIR";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out
     cp -R data locale $out
     cp neverball $out/bin
     cp neverputt $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/games/openlierox/default.nix b/pkgs/games/openlierox/default.nix
index fd2a2f18f39..751941bdfc1 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/openlierox/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/openlierox/default.nix
@@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["doUnpack" "addInputs" "setParams"];
 
   doInstall = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $BIN_DIR $SYSTEM_DATA_DIR $DOC_DIR $PIXMAP_DIR
+    mkdir -p $BIN_DIR $SYSTEM_DATA_DIR $DOC_DIR $PIXMAP_DIR
     bash install.sh
   '') ["doBuild" "addInputs" "setParams" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/games/orbit/default.nix b/pkgs/games/orbit/default.nix
index 65e394f60bb..9769e6f5d67 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/orbit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/orbit/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ with builderDefs;
 			sed -e 's@/usr/share/games/orbit/@'$out'/dump/@g' -i *.c
                         sed -e '/DIR=/d; s/-lesd//; s/-DESD//;' -i Makefile 
                         make 
-                        ensureDir $out/bin
+                        mkdir -p $out/bin
                         cp -r .. $out/dump
                         cat >$out/bin/space-orbit <<EOF
 #! /bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/games/pong3d/default.nix b/pkgs/games/pong3d/default.nix
index 281bd8966f6..24baff5394a 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/pong3d/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/pong3d/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     sed -i s,/usr/local,$out, Makefile
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/games/privateer/default.nix b/pkgs/games/privateer/default.nix
index 1fe925e31b6..bb67f422c9d 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/privateer/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/privateer/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp vegastrike $out/bin
     cp vegaserver $out/bin
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/quake3/demo/builder.sh b/pkgs/games/quake3/demo/builder.sh
index 640401a0ec8..40b0a547243 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/quake3/demo/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/games/quake3/demo/builder.sh
@@ -5,5 +5,5 @@ chmod -R +w .
 tail -n +175 $update | tar xvfz -
 chmod -R +w .
 
-ensureDir $out/baseq3
+mkdir -p $out/baseq3
 cp demoq3/*.pk3 baseq3/*.pk3 $out/baseq3
diff --git a/pkgs/games/quake3/game/default.nix b/pkgs/games/quake3/game/default.nix
index 3b82ebb83a8..e1a78750535 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/quake3/game/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/quake3/game/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [x11 SDL mesa openal];
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/baseq3
+    mkdir -p $out/baseq3
     installTargets=copyfiles
     installFlags="COPYDIR=$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/quake3/wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/games/quake3/wrapper/builder.sh
index 57d6bc6a5ba..6b5bd7450c5 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/quake3/wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/games/quake3/wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/baseq3
+mkdir -p $out/baseq3
 for i in $paks; do
     if test -d "$paks/baseq3"; then
         ln -s $paks/baseq3/* $out/baseq3/
diff --git a/pkgs/games/rigsofrods/default.nix b/pkgs/games/rigsofrods/default.nix
index 8fc623184ed..e76489309cc 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/rigsofrods/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/rigsofrods/default.nix
@@ -40,9 +40,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   installPhase = ''
     sed -e "s@/usr/local/lib/OGRE@${ogre}/lib/OGRE@" -i ../bin/plugins.cfg
     sed -e "/CgProgramManager/d" -i ../bin/plugins.cfg
-    ensureDir $out/share/rigsofrods
+    mkdir -p $out/share/rigsofrods
     cp -r .. $out/share/rigsofrods/build-dir
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for i in RoR rorconfig RoRViewer; do
       echo '#! ${stdenv.shell}' >> "$out/bin/$i"
       if [ "$i" = "rorconfig" ]; then
diff --git a/pkgs/games/sauerbraten/default.nix b/pkgs/games/sauerbraten/default.nix
index aca16d14e36..ff99b428cef 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/sauerbraten/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/sauerbraten/default.nix
@@ -37,7 +37,7 @@ rec {
   '';
 
   doUnpack = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/sauerbraten/build-dir
+    mkdir -p $out/share/sauerbraten/build-dir
     ln -s  $out/share/sauerbraten/build-dir
     cd $out/share/sauerbraten/build-dir
     (cd ${src}; find . -type d) | tail -n +2 | xargs -L 1 mkdir
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ rec {
 
   doCreateScripts = a.fullDepEntry ''
     cd ..
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     echo '#! /bin/sh' >> $out/bin/sauerbraten_server
     echo 'cd "'"$out"'/share/sauerbraten/build-dir"' >> $out/bin/sauerbraten_server
     echo './bin_unix/native_server "$@"' >> $out/bin/sauerbraten_server
diff --git a/pkgs/games/simutrans/default.nix b/pkgs/games/simutrans/default.nix
index 511aa850ff9..c0f9d213762 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/simutrans/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/simutrans/default.nix
@@ -54,10 +54,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
     mv sim simutrans/
 
-    ensureDir $out/simutrans
+    mkdir -p $out/simutrans
     cp -r simutrans $out
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ln -s $out/simutrans/sim $out/bin/simutrans
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/games/teetertorture/default.nix b/pkgs/games/teetertorture/default.nix
index 45b5988e88c..18a911d563b 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/teetertorture/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/teetertorture/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/teetertorture
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/teetertorture
     cp teetertorture $out/bin
     cp -R data/* $out/share/teetertorture
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/teeworlds/default.nix b/pkgs/games/teeworlds/default.nix
index 7824fbd9bdf..c685f11c4c1 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/teeworlds/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/teeworlds/default.nix
@@ -18,11 +18,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     # Copy the graphics, sounds, etc.
-    ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
     cp -rv data other/icons "$out/share/${name}"
 
     # Copy the executables (client, server, etc.).
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     executables=""
     for file in *
     do
@@ -46,7 +46,7 @@ EOF
     done
 
     # Copy the documentation.
-    ensureDir "$out/doc/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/doc/${name}"
     cp -v *.txt "$out/doc/${name}"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/games/the-butterfly-effect/default.nix b/pkgs/games/the-butterfly-effect/default.nix
index bd1885f9bd9..99f73e07a63 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/the-butterfly-effect/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/the-butterfly-effect/default.nix
@@ -38,9 +38,9 @@ rec {
   '';
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/tbe"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/tbe"
     cp -r . "$out/share/tbe/build-dir"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     echo '#! /bin/sh' >> "$out/bin/tbe"
     echo "$out/share/tbe/build-dir/tbe \"\$@\"" >> "$out/bin/tbe"
     chmod a+x "$out/bin/tbe"
diff --git a/pkgs/games/thePenguinMachine/default.nix b/pkgs/games/thePenguinMachine/default.nix
index 68d44364f59..04438cf70ad 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/thePenguinMachine/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/thePenguinMachine/default.nix
@@ -26,9 +26,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 		'';
   installPhase = ''
 		python setup.py install --prefix=$out
-		ensureDir "$out"/share/tpm/
+		mkdir -p "$out"/share/tpm/
 		cp -r .  "$out"/share/tpm/build-dir
-		ensureDir "$out/bin"
+		mkdir -p "$out/bin"
 		echo "#! /bin/sh" >> "$out/bin/tpm"
 		echo "export PYTHONPATH=\"\$PYTHONPATH:$PYTHONPATH:$(echo ${pil}/lib/python*/site-packages/PIL)\"" >> "$out/bin/tpm"
 		echo "cd \"$out/share/tpm/build-dir\"" >> "$out/bin/tpm"
diff --git a/pkgs/games/trackballs/default.nix b/pkgs/games/trackballs/default.nix
index f945e99c071..22d8c944fa8 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/trackballs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/trackballs/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   CXXFLAGS = CFLAGS;
   dontStrip = debug;
   postUnpack = optionalString debug
-    "ensureDir $out/src; cp -R * $out/src ; cd $out/src";
+    "mkdir -p $out/src; cp -R * $out/src ; cd $out/src";
 
   NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE = "-iquote ${SDL}/include/SDL";
   configureFlags = optionalString debug "--enable-debug";
diff --git a/pkgs/games/tremulous/default.nix b/pkgs/games/tremulous/default.nix
index a4a887e2ed3..bef4b63b0cc 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/tremulous/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/tremulous/default.nix
@@ -41,11 +41,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
   installPhase = ''
     arch=$(uname -m | sed -e s/i.86/x86/)
-    ensureDir $out/opt/tremulous
+    mkdir -p $out/opt/tremulous
     cp -v Release_1.011/build/release-linux-$arch/tremulous.$arch $out/opt/tremulous/
     cp -v mg_tremded_source/build/release-linux-$arch/tremded.$arch $out/opt/tremulous/
     cp -rv base $out/opt/tremulous
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for b in tremulous tremded
     do
         cat << EOF > $out/bin/$b
diff --git a/pkgs/games/trigger/default.nix b/pkgs/games/trigger/default.nix
index ecc3c1a36fc..fca8ddb889a 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/trigger/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/trigger/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     jam install
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     pushd $out/share
     tar xf $srcData
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/games/urbanterror/default.nix b/pkgs/games/urbanterror/default.nix
index dc870c79aba..74448cdad76 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/urbanterror/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/urbanterror/default.nix
@@ -35,8 +35,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
   installPhase = ''
     destDir="$out/opt/urbanterror"
-    ensureDir "$destDir"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$destDir"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp -v ioUrbanTerrorClientSource/build/release-linux-*/ioUrbanTerror.* \
           "$destDir/ioUrbanTerror"
     cp -v ioUrbanTerrorServerSource/build/release-linux-*/ioUrTded.* \
diff --git a/pkgs/games/ut2004demo/make-wrapper.sh b/pkgs/games/ut2004demo/make-wrapper.sh
index 5dbb451272a..53ef90a615b 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/ut2004demo/make-wrapper.sh
+++ b/pkgs/games/ut2004demo/make-wrapper.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 cat > $out/bin/ut2004demo <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
diff --git a/pkgs/games/vectoroids/default.nix b/pkgs/games/vectoroids/default.nix
index 5f9031ceeaa..6f0fb48f0a5 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/vectoroids/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/vectoroids/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     sed -i s,/usr/local,$out, Makefile
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/games/warsow/default.nix b/pkgs/games/warsow/default.nix
index c70b6f6f22e..c584319bdc9 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/warsow/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/warsow/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     cd warsow_${version}_sdk
     unzip $src1
     unzip $src2
-    ensureDir source/release/
+    mkdir -p source/release/
     mv warsow_${mversion}_unified/basewsw source/release/
     cd source
   '';
@@ -33,8 +33,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     for f in warsow wsw_server wswtv_server; do
         substituteInPlace $f --replace BINARY_DIR= BINARY_DIR=$dest
     done
-    ensureDir $dest
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $dest
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp -v {warsow,wsw_server,wswtv_server}.* $dest
     cp -rv basewsw libs $dest
     cp -v warsow wsw_server wswtv_server $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/games/xonotic/default.nix b/pkgs/games/xonotic/default.nix
index 8ac05d9ef72..3553649dccb 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/xonotic/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/xonotic/default.nix
@@ -25,11 +25,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     make DP_FS_BASEDIR=$DP_FS_BASEDIR sv-release
   '';
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp darkplaces-dedicated "$out/bin/xonotic-dedicated"
     cp darkplaces-sdl "$out/bin/xonotic-sdl"
     cd ../..
-    ensureDir "$out/share/xonotic"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/xonotic"
     mv data "$out/share/xonotic"
   '';
   dontPatchELF = true;
diff --git a/pkgs/games/xsokoban/default.nix b/pkgs/games/xsokoban/default.nix
index b3b3954da8c..b8917b4d41c 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/xsokoban/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/xsokoban/default.nix
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ rec {
   preBuild = a.fullDepEntry (''
     sed -e "s@/usr/local/@$out/@" -i Makefile
     sed -e "s@ /bin/@ @" -i Makefile 
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share $out/man/man1 $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share $out/man/man1 $out/lib
   '') ["minInit" "doConfigure" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   name = "xsokoban-" + version;
diff --git a/pkgs/games/zangband/default.nix b/pkgs/games/zangband/default.nix
index dd654edcfe1..b94633d8d3a 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/zangband/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/zangband/default.nix
@@ -21,9 +21,9 @@ rec {
     sed -re 's/ch(own|grp|mod)/true/' -i lib/*/makefile.zb makefile.in
     sed -e '/FIXED_PATHS/d' -i src/z-config.h
     ./bootstrap
-    ensureDir $out/share/games/zangband
-    ensureDir $out/share/man
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/games/zangband
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack" "addInputs" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   postInstall = a.fullDepEntry (''
diff --git a/pkgs/games/zod/default.nix b/pkgs/games/zod/default.nix
index 731a5e40fd8..d9fcb47bcc3 100644
--- a/pkgs/games/zod/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/games/zod/default.nix
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   NIX_LDFLAGS="-L${mysql}/lib/mysql";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/zod
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/zod
     pushd $out/share/zod
     unrar x $srcAssets
     popd
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/drivers/gutenprint/bin.nix b/pkgs/misc/drivers/gutenprint/bin.nix
index feb42296c9d..d78e1674d87 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/drivers/gutenprint/bin.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/drivers/gutenprint/bin.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ add the following lines to bindirCmds property of  printing/cupsd.nix:
 
   ln -s ${pkgs.gutenprintBin}/lib/cups/backend/* $out/lib/cups/backend/
   ln -s ${pkgs.gutenprintBin}/lib/cups/filter/* $out/lib/cups/filter/
-  ensureDir $out/lib/cups/model
+  mkdir -p $out/lib/cups/model
   cat ${pkgs.gutenprintBin}/ppds/Canon/Canon-PIXMA_iP4000-gutenprint.5.0.sim-en.ppd.gz |gunzip > $out/lib/cups/model/Canon-PIXMA_iP4000-gutenprint.5.0.sim-en.ppd
   sed -i 's@/opt/gutenprint/cups@${pkgs.gutenprintBin}/cups@' $out/lib/cups/model/Canon-PIXMA_iP4000-gutenprint.5.0.sim-en.ppd
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/atari800/builder.sh b/pkgs/misc/emulators/atari800/builder.sh
index f0fcb5150c8..afb9404657a 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/atari800/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/atari800/builder.sh
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ preConfigure() {
 
 postInstall() {
     romsDir=$out/share/atari800/roms
-    ensureDir $romsDir
+    mkdir -p $romsDir
     unzip $rom -d $romsDir
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/darcnes/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/emulators/darcnes/default.nix
index 5ce5512119d..15ab18495d2 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/darcnes/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/darcnes/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ libX11 libXt libXext libXaw ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp darcnes $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/dosbox/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/emulators/dosbox/default.nix
index 8a7bff6f7e4..eff47c9c503 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/dosbox/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/dosbox/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   postInstall = ''
-     ensureDir $out/share/applications
+     mkdir -p $out/share/applications
      cp ${desktopItem}/share/applications/* $out/share/applications
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/fakenes/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/emulators/fakenes/default.nix
index 62ecb6e4156..e3c9dbc84e5 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/fakenes/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/fakenes/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     libXxf86vm libXcursor libXpm ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp fakenes $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/mess/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/emulators/mess/default.nix
index b3897154e9a..150042ad796 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/mess/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/mess/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       cp mess* $out/bin/mess 
     '';
     
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/emulators/vice/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/emulators/vice/default.nix
index 425080d7c62..12f1222553e 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/emulators/vice/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/emulators/vice/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
   
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/applications
+    mkdir -p $out/share/applications
     cp ${desktopItem}/share/applications/* $out/share/applications
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/foldingathome/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/foldingathome/default.nix
index ca4fe2657bf..ef8cb7d0a92 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/foldingathome/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/foldingathome/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     for a in $BINFILES; do 
       patchelf --set-interpreter $(cat $NIX_GCC/nix-support/dynamic-linker) $a
     done
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp $BINFILES $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/gxemul/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/gxemul/default.nix
index ad126b45daa..5cad3c964e4 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/gxemul/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/gxemul/default.nix
@@ -8,8 +8,8 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} {
   inherit name;
   
   flags = {
-    doc   = { installPhase = "ensureDir \$out/share/${name}; cp -r doc \$out/share/${name};"; implies = "man"; };
-    demos = { installPhase = "ensureDir \$out/share/${name}; cp -r demos \$out/share/${name};"; };
+    doc   = { installPhase = "mkdir -p \$out/share/${name}; cp -r doc \$out/share/${name};"; implies = "man"; };
+    demos = { installPhase = "mkdir -p \$out/share/${name}; cp -r demos \$out/share/${name};"; };
     man   = { installPhase = "cp -r ./man \$out/;";};
   };
 
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} {
     manSupport = true;
   };
 
-  installPhase = "ensureDir \$out/bin; cp gxemul \$out/bin;";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p \$out/bin; cp gxemul \$out/bin;";
 
   src = fetchurl {
     url = http://gavare.se/gxemul/src/gxemul-0.4.6.tar.gz;
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/jackaudio/jack1.nix b/pkgs/misc/jackaudio/jack1.nix
index 88bc4dff540..bb11e5d5f04 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/jackaudio/jack1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/jackaudio/jack1.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ composableDerivation.composableDerivation {} {
   
   # make sure the jackaudio is found by symlinking lib64 to lib
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     ln -s $out/lib{64,}/pkgconfig
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/misc.nix b/pkgs/misc/misc.nix
index 1b026ebb684..de23d6fa2c8 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/misc.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/misc.nix
@@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ in
         )
       }
 
-      ensureDir $target/{include,lib}
+      mkdir -p $target/{include,lib}
       link $target/lib "$(echo "''${!LIB_PATHS[@]}")"
       link $target/include "$(echo "''${!INCLUDE_PATHS[@]}")"
       echo "''${!LIBS[@]}" > $target/libs
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/default.nix
index 458985c61f7..3f9ecdccb40 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postInstall = ''
     if test "$udevSupport" = "1"; then
-      ensureDir $out/etc/udev/rules.d/
+      mkdir -p $out/etc/udev/rules.d/
       ./tools/sane-desc -m udev > $out/etc/udev/rules.d/60-libsane.rules || \
       cp tools/udev/libsane.rules $out/etc/udev/rules.d/60-libsane.rules
     fi
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/snapshot.nix b/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/snapshot.nix
index 8725206ddce..636ae37ec05 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/snapshot.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/sane-backends/snapshot.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postInstall = ''
     if test "$udevSupport" = "1"; then
-      ensureDir $out/etc/udev/rules.d/
+      mkdir -p $out/etc/udev/rules.d/
       ./tools/sane-desc -m udev > $out/etc/udev/rules.d/60-libsane.rules || \
       cp tools/udev/libsane.rules $out/etc/udev/rules.d/60-libsane.rules
     fi
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/screensavers/electricsheep/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/screensavers/electricsheep/default.nix
index 64674d78ac7..dca60f55af0 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/screensavers/electricsheep/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/screensavers/electricsheep/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   preInstall = ''
     installFlags=GNOME_DATADIR=$out
-    ensureDir $out/control-center/screensavers
+    mkdir -p $out/control-center/screensavers
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/screensavers/rss-glx/builder.sh b/pkgs/misc/screensavers/rss-glx/builder.sh
index 00ec2e065bd..a0c138d5e04 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/screensavers/rss-glx/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/screensavers/rss-glx/builder.sh
@@ -2,9 +2,9 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 # This is a very dirty hack to prevent the binaries from putting the
 # Mesa libraries in their RPATHs.
-ensureDir $out/tmp
+mkdir -p $out/tmp
 ln -s $mesa/lib/* $out/tmp/
-ensureDir $out/lib
+mkdir -p $out/lib
 ln -s $mesa/lib/libGLU* $out/lib/
 export NIX_LDFLAGS="-L$out/tmp $NIX_LDFLAGS"
 
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ rm -rf $out/tmp
 
 
 # Add a wrapper around each program to use the appropriate OpenGL driver.
-ensureDir $out/bin/.orig
+mkdir -p $out/bin/.orig
 
 for i in $(cd $out/bin && ls); do
     mv $out/bin/$i $out/bin/.orig/$i
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/source-and-tags/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/source-and-tags/default.nix
index 42101fa6ffe..e3993d0daea 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/source-and-tags/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/source-and-tags/default.nix
@@ -28,13 +28,13 @@ args: with args; {
            '') createTagFiles );
       in ''
       SRC_DEST=$out/src/$name
-      ensureDir $SRC_DEST
+      mkdir -p $SRC_DEST
       pwd; ls
       cp -r $srcDir $SRC_DEST
       cd $SRC_DEST
       ${createTags}
 
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       echo "TAG_FILES=\"\$TAG_FILES\''${TAG_FILES:+:}$TAG_FILES\"" >> $out/nix-support/setup-hook
     '';
   };
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/lazylist/builder.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/lazylist/builder.sh
index 140b07f7be7..cdab5bb8c97 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/lazylist/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/lazylist/builder.sh
@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ buildPhase=true
 
 installPhase=myInstallPhase
 myInstallPhase() {
-  ensureDir "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/lazylist"
+  mkdir -p "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/lazylist"
   cp lazylist.sty "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/lazylist"
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/lkproof/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/lkproof/default.nix
index 2d3a1e5f19c..936e4a31af1 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/lkproof/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/lkproof/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ unzip ];
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/share/texmf-nix/tex/generic/lkproof
+    mkdir -p $out/share/texmf-nix/tex/generic/lkproof
     cp -prd *.sty $out/share/texmf-nix/tex/generic/lkproof
   ";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/animatedot.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/animatedot.sh
index 2e1868d4beb..46a2c515e03 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/animatedot.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/animatedot.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 for ((i = 1; i <= $nrFrames; i++)); do
     echo "producing frame $i...";
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/default.nix
index f5a34fb67a2..9ae567e635b 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/default.nix
@@ -182,7 +182,7 @@ rec {
           ln -s $postscript $input
         fi
 
-        ensureDir $out
+        mkdir -p $out
         convert -units PixelsPerInch \
           -density 600 \
           -trim \
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2pdf.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2pdf.sh
index 0a9610c00ff..c416bf235a1 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2pdf.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2pdf.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 dot2pdf() {
     sourceFile=$1
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2ps.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2ps.sh
index 1269108d6f5..c70e76ce4c7 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2ps.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/dot2ps.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 dot2ps() {
     sourceFile=$1
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/lhs2tex.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/lhs2tex.sh
index 6edca4baf8a..f34b3944c8e 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/lhs2tex.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/lhs2tex.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 mkdir root
 cd root
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/run-latex.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/run-latex.sh
index 6c18721eed6..2886057c894 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/run-latex.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/nix/run-latex.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 
 export TEXMFCNF=$TMPDIR:
 echo 'max_print_line = 8192' >> $TMPDIR/texmf.cnf
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/1.x.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/1.x.nix
index 672ae6fdfce..91948f995a0 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/1.x.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/1.x.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   buildPhase = "true";
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/share/texmf-nix
+    mkdir -p $out/share/texmf-nix
     cp -prd * $out/share/texmf-nix
   ";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/2.x.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/2.x.nix
index 5e73d12959c..09ec1729cfd 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/2.x.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/pgf/2.x.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "true";
   
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/share/texmf-nix
+    mkdir -p $out/share/texmf-nix
     cp -prd * $out/share/texmf-nix
   ";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/polytable/builder.sh b/pkgs/misc/tex/polytable/builder.sh
index 1138b8e6789..68f653ccec0 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/polytable/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/polytable/builder.sh
@@ -4,14 +4,14 @@ buildPhase=true
 
 installPhase=myInstallPhase
 myInstallPhase() {
-  ensureDir "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/polytable"
-  ensureDir "$out/share/texmf-nix/doc/latex/polytable"
+  mkdir -p "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/polytable"
+  mkdir -p "$out/share/texmf-nix/doc/latex/polytable"
   latex polytable.ins
   pdflatex polytable.dtx
   pdflatex polytable.dtx
   cp polytable.sty "$out/share/texmf-nix/tex/latex/polytable"
   cp polytable.pdf "$out/share/texmf-nix/doc/latex/polytable"
-  ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+  mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
   echo "$propagatedUserEnvPackages" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-user-env-packages"
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/tetex/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/tetex/default.nix
index 5e0fb38c3bd..bb1e3f8b4b0 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/tetex/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/tetex/default.nix
@@ -33,8 +33,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   postUnpack =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/texmf
-      ensureDir $out/share/texmf-dist
+      mkdir -p $out/share/texmf
+      mkdir -p $out/share/texmf-dist
       gunzip < $texmf | (cd $out/share/texmf-dist && tar xvf -)
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/tex4ht/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/tex4ht/default.nix
index 90d134fcd4e..5d5d85d3c1d 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/tex4ht/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/tex4ht/default.nix
@@ -21,12 +21,12 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for f in src/tex4ht src/t4ht src/htcmd bin/unix/*; do # */
       mv $f $out/bin/.
     done
 
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     cp -r texmf $out/share/.
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/aggregate.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/aggregate.nix
index 1723f481906..c018d2da0d3 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/aggregate.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/aggregate.nix
@@ -7,12 +7,12 @@ rec {
 
   doAggregate = fullDepEntry (''
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for currentPath in ${lib.concatStringsSep " " buildInputs}; do
         echo Symlinking "$currentPath"
         find $currentPath/share/info $currentPath/share/man $(echo $currentPath/texmf*/) ! -type d | while read; do
             REPLY="''${REPLY#$currentPath}"
-            ensureDir $out/"$(dirname "$REPLY")"
+            mkdir -p $out/"$(dirname "$REPLY")"
             ln -fs $currentPath/"$REPLY" $out/"$REPLY"
             echo
         done | while read; do head -n 99 >/dev/null; echo -n .; done
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ rec {
     rm -r $out/texmf-config
     find $out/texmf/ -type d | while read; do
       REPLY="''${REPLY#$out/texmf}"
-      ensureDir $out/texmf-config/"$REPLY"
+      mkdir -p $out/texmf-config/"$REPLY"
     done
 
     for i in $out/libexec/*/* :; do
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/beamer.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/beamer.nix
index 5ff2c89316a..851ad0707a1 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/beamer.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/beamer.nix
@@ -10,9 +10,9 @@ rec {
   propagatedBuildInputs = [texLiveLatexXColor texLivePGF];
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
 
-    ensureDir $out/texmf-dist/tex/latex/beamer
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf-dist/tex/latex/beamer
     cp -r * $out/texmf-dist/tex/latex/beamer 
 
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/cm-super.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/cm-super.nix
index 4f15afdc381..e23b3936850 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/cm-super.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/cm-super.nix
@@ -8,17 +8,17 @@ rec {
 
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
 
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/fonts/enc
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/fonts/map
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/fonts/type1/public/cm-super
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/fonts/enc
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/fonts/map
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/fonts/type1/public/cm-super
     cp pfb/*.pfb $out/texmf/fonts/type1/public/cm-super
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/dvips/cm-super
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/dvips/cm-super
     cp dvips/*.{map,enc}  $out/texmf/dvips/cm-super
     cp dvips/*.enc  $out/texmf/fonts/enc
     cp dvips/*.map  $out/texmf/fonts/map
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/dvipdfm/config
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/dvipdfm/config
     cp dvipdfm/*.map  $out/texmf/dvipdfm/config
 
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/context.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/context.nix
index b502b0f2108..a7161cea4c1 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/context.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/context.nix
@@ -9,9 +9,9 @@ rec {
   buildInputs = [texLive];
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
 
-    ensureDir $out/texmf
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf
     cp -r * $out/texmf
 
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/default.nix
index 69fb5d7e415..30e59849d32 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/default.nix
@@ -18,10 +18,10 @@ rec {
   setupHook = ./setup-hook.sh;
 
   doMainBuild = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out
-    ensureDir $out/nix-support
+    mkdir -p $out
+    mkdir -p $out/nix-support
     cp ${setupHook} $out/nix-support/setup-hook.sh
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     tar xf ${texmfSrc} -C $out --strip-components=1
     tar xf ${langTexmfSrc} -C $out --strip-components=1
 
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ rec {
 
   doPostInstall = fullDepEntry(''
     mv $out/bin $out/libexec
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     for i in "$out/libexec/"*"/"*; do
         test \( \! -d "$i" \) -a -x "$i" || continue
         echo -ne "#! $SHELL\\nexec $i \"\$@\"" >$out/bin/$(basename $i)
@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@ rec {
     #
     # I find it acceptable, hence the "|| true".
     echo "building format files..."
-    ensureDir "$out/texmf-var/web2c"
+    mkdir -p "$out/texmf-var/web2c"
     PATH="$PATH:$out/bin" fmtutil-sys --all || true
 
     PATH=$PATH:$out/bin mktexlsr $out/texmf*
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/extra.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/extra.nix
index 598bdd08aef..1ecec91a685 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/extra.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/extra.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ rec {
   buildInputs = [texLive];
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/share
     cp -r texmf* $out/
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack" "defEnsureDir" "addInputs"];
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/moderncv.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/moderncv.nix
index a19835eda4b..bbff2ccf4a1 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/moderncv.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/moderncv.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ rec {
   buildInputs = [texLive unzip];
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/tex/latex/moderncv $out/texmf/doc $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/tex/latex/moderncv $out/texmf/doc $out/share
     mv *.cls *.sty $out/texmf/tex/latex/moderncv/
     mv examples $out/texmf/doc/moderncv
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/pgf.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/pgf.nix
index fac520290f0..61e2eb26c68 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/pgf.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/pgf.nix
@@ -12,8 +12,8 @@ rec {
 
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/share/
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/tex/generic/pgf
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/tex/generic/pgf
     cp -r * $out/texmf/tex/generic/pgf
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack" "defEnsureDir" "addInputs"];
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/xcolor.nix b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/xcolor.nix
index 4e8d5eeb30b..e59a58ce9b2 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/xcolor.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/tex/texlive/xcolor.nix
@@ -10,10 +10,10 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doCopy"];
   doCopy = fullDepEntry (''
     export HOME=$PWD
-    ensureDir $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
 
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/tex/latex/xcolor
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/dvips/xcolor
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/tex/latex/xcolor
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/dvips/xcolor
     latex xcolor.ins 
     cp *.sty *.def $out/texmf/tex/latex/xcolor
     cp *.pro $out/texmf/dvips/xcolor
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ rec {
     #latex xcolor.dtx
 
     rm *.sty *.pro *.ins *.def *.dtx
-    ensureDir $out/texmf/doc/latex-xcolor
+    mkdir -p $out/texmf/doc/latex-xcolor
     cp *  $out/texmf/doc/latex-xcolor
 
     ln -s $out/texmf* $out/share/
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/uboot/default.nix b/pkgs/misc/uboot/default.nix
index 0ad55339d08..7525c28e740 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/uboot/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/uboot/default.nix
@@ -32,11 +32,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   dontStrip = true;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp u-boot.bin $out
     cp u-boot u-boot.map $out
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tools/{envcrc,mkimage} $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/uboot/guruplug.nix b/pkgs/misc/uboot/guruplug.nix
index b78424acfae..0e63a56073b 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/uboot/guruplug.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/uboot/guruplug.nix
@@ -44,10 +44,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   dontStrip = true;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -v u-boot u-boot.{kwb,map} $out
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tools/{envcrc,mkimage} $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/uboot/nanonote.nix b/pkgs/misc/uboot/nanonote.nix
index c45eb3f1d24..b8261979ec0 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/uboot/nanonote.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/uboot/nanonote.nix
@@ -50,11 +50,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   dontStrip = true;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp u-boot-nand.bin $out
     cp u-boot u-boot.map $out
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tools/{envcrc,mkimage} $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/misc/uboot/sheevaplug.nix b/pkgs/misc/uboot/sheevaplug.nix
index 83d029d4154..5eb8d7d7bf8 100644
--- a/pkgs/misc/uboot/sheevaplug.nix
+++ b/pkgs/misc/uboot/sheevaplug.nix
@@ -47,11 +47,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   dontStrip = true;
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp u-boot-rd88f6281Sheevaplug_400db_nand.bin $out
     cp u-boot u-boot.map $out
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tools/{envcrc,mkimage} $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/915resolution/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/915resolution/default.nix
index 48ab97d9106..cfb71690ad5 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/915resolution/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/915resolution/default.nix
@@ -7,5 +7,5 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     sha256 = "1m5nfzgwaglqabpm2l2mjqvigz1z0dj87cmj2pjbbzxmmpapv0lq";
   };
   buildPhase = "rm *.o 915resolution; make";
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/sbin; cp 915resolution $out/sbin/";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/sbin; cp 915resolution $out/sbin/";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/acpi-call/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/acpi-call/default.nix
index 1a9b3cbf74d..925e2e2e650 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/acpi-call/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/acpi-call/default.nix
@@ -17,9 +17,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
  
   installPhase = ''
     kernelVersion=$(cd ${kernel}/lib/modules && ls)
-    ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
     cp acpi_call.ko $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp test_off.sh $out/bin/test_discrete_video_off.sh
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ati-drivers/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ati-drivers/builder.sh
index 1fd6234b48e..b05093d8915 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ati-drivers/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ati-drivers/builder.sh
@@ -136,7 +136,7 @@ GCC_MAJOR="`gcc --version | grep -o -e ") ." | head -1 | cut -d " " -f 2`"
 
 { # install
 
-  ensureDir $out/lib/xorg
+  mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg
 
   cp -r common/usr/include $out
   cp -r common/usr/sbin $out
@@ -152,7 +152,7 @@ GCC_MAJOR="`gcc --version | grep -o -e ") ." | head -1 | cut -d " " -f 2`"
   cp -r $DIR_DEPENDING_ON_XORG_VERSION/usr/X11R6/$lib_arch/* $out/lib/xorg
 
   t=$out/lib/modules/${kernelVersion}/kernel/drivers/misc
-  ensureDir $t
+  mkdir -p $t
 
   cp ./common/lib/modules/fglrx/build_mod/2.6.x/fglrx.ko $t
 
@@ -174,7 +174,7 @@ GCC_MAJOR="`gcc --version | grep -o -e ") ." | head -1 | cut -d " " -f 2`"
 }
 
 { # build samples
-  ensureDir $out/bin
+  mkdir -p $out/bin
 
   mkdir -p samples
   cd samples
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.1.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.1.nix
index f6a3a6dffc2..1539775a2a1 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.1.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
       cp -v aufs.ko $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
 
       # Install the headers because aufs2.1-util requires them.
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.nix
index 696ed57b860..4d80ddae0b8 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/2.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
       cp aufs.ko $out/lib/modules/${kernel.version}/misc
 
       # Install the headers because aufs2-util requires them.
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/3.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/3.nix
index ec3c5aec85b..731098134b5 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/3.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/aufs/3.nix
@@ -22,11 +22,11 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib/modules/${kernel.modDirVersion}/misc
+      mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/${kernel.modDirVersion}/misc
       cp -v aufs.ko $out/lib/modules/${kernel.modDirVersion}/misc
 
       # Install the headers because aufs3-util requires them.
-      ensureDir $out/include/linux
+      mkdir -p $out/include/linux
       cp -v usr/include/linux/aufs_type.h $out/include/linux
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/broadcom-sta/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/broadcom-sta/default.nix
index 9749b1568e4..39cc2dd4080 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/broadcom-sta/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/broadcom-sta/default.nix
@@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     ''
       binDir="$out/lib/modules/${kernel.modDirVersion}/kernel/net/wireless/"
       docDir="$out/share/doc/broadcom-sta/"
-      ensureDir "$binDir" "$docDir"
+      mkdir -p "$binDir" "$docDir"
       cp wl.ko "$binDir"
       cp lib/LICENSE.txt "$docDir"
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/cramfsswap/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/cramfsswap/builder.sh
index 14e6a11f9d0..51a5b11dda6 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/cramfsswap/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/cramfsswap/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 export DESTDIR=$out
-ensureDir $out/usr/bin
+mkdir -p $out/usr/bin
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/exmap/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/exmap/default.nix
index da5e00e3377..a7fb22f95e9 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/exmap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/exmap/default.nix
@@ -31,10 +31,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   #checkPhase = "make test"
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
     cp kernel/*.ko "$out/share/${name}"
 
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp src/{gexmap,exmtool,elftool,showproc} "$out/bin"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ext3cow-tools/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ext3cow-tools/builder.sh
index 560b8d6723a..be6e3d9ce3a 100755
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ext3cow-tools/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ext3cow-tools/builder.sh
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ sed -i "s/linux\/ext3cow_fs.h/$kernerlext3cowheader_slashed/" ext3cow_tools.h		#
 
 make
 
-ensureDir $out/bin/
+mkdir -p $out/bin/
 cp ss $out/bin/snapshot
 cp tt $out/bin/
 cp e2d $out/bin/
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/firmware-linux-nonfree/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/firmware-linux-nonfree/default.nix
index 6ad2227ee69..f468b183be9 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/firmware-linux-nonfree/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/firmware-linux-nonfree/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   patchPhase = "rm -rf debian defines TODO";
 
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out && cp -ra * $out/";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out && cp -ra * $out/";
 
   # repeat the same trick for radeon, 3com, etc.
   postInstall = "ln -s $out/realtek/rtlwifi $out/rtlwifi";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2100/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2100/default.nix
index 2ffa8c3e837..3548a841aab 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2100/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2100/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # says: "Your rights to redistribute the Software shall be
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out; cp * $out";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out; cp * $out";
   
   meta = {
     # "... you may transfer a copy of the Software ... provided such
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2200/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2200/default.nix
index ed6a82e0df7..402636862ec 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2200/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ipw2200/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # says: "Your rights to redistribute the Software shall be
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out; cp * $out";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out; cp * $out";
   
   meta = {
     # "... you may transfer a copy of the Software ... provided such
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-1000-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-1000-ucode/default.nix
index c09bd5c5aca..2660c0b2493 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-1000-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-1000-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-3945-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-3945-ucode/default.nix
index 389d416f2a5..afe2357995c 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-3945-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-3945-ucode/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   
   buildPhase = "true";
 
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out; chmod -x *; cp * $out";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out; chmod -x *; cp * $out";
   
   meta = {
     description = "Firmware for the Intel 3945ABG wireless card";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/default.nix
index b75eae6acf2..3e3ad74adb3 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/version-2.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/version-2.nix
index 0948d381f7f..e1771c7a5cf 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/version-2.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-4965-ucode/version-2.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5000-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5000-ucode/default.nix
index 8dc69e0a6a3..b8ee5f388d1 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5000-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5000-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5150-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5150-ucode/default.nix
index 0505a940d26..0d409bd8427 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5150-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-5150-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000-ucode/default.nix
index 5b7e2dc7b5e..e5f3effa4b7 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2a-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2a-ucode/default.nix
index 80aa6d367be..e5fe73ca498 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2a-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2a-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2b-ucode/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2b-ucode/default.nix
index 580af83ea9d..b3a2a810bf7 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2b-ucode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/iwlwifi-6000g2b-ucode/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out"
+    mkdir -p "$out"
     chmod -x *
     cp * "$out"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ralink/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ralink/default.nix
index 23513d2bf88..abf12fd672b 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ralink/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/ralink/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp $src/*.bin $out
     cp $src/LICENSE $out/ralink.LICENSE
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2860/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2860/default.nix
index 0c8accd2f6c..0a1cb655572 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2860/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2860/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp $src/rt2860.bin $out
     cp $src/LICENSE $out/rt2860.LICENSE
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2870/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2870/default.nix
index 388d3a50343..15de7c30586 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2870/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt2870/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   # says: "Your rights to redistribute the Software shall be
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/${name}; cp *.bin $out; cp *.txt $out/${name}";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/${name}; cp *.bin $out; cp *.txt $out/${name}";
   
   meta = {
     description = "Firmware for the Ralink RT2870 wireless cards";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt73/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt73/default.nix
index 32c097a62df..95393100139 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt73/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rt73/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   # says: "Your rights to redistribute the Software shall be
   # contingent upon your installation of this Agreement in its
   # entirety in the same directory as the Software."
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/${name}; cp *.bin $out; cp *.txt $out/${name}";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/${name}; cp *.bin $out; cp *.txt $out/${name}";
   
   meta = {
     description = "Firmware for the Ralink RT73 wireless card";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rtl8192c/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rtl8192c/default.nix
index 85bbb27c67f..7016e23581b 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rtl8192c/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/rtl8192c/default.nix
@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   src = firmwareLinuxNonfree;
 
   phases = [ "installPhase" ];
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/rtlwifi && cp $src/realtek/rtlwifi/rtl8192cfw.bin $out/rtlwifi/rtl8192cfw.bin";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/rtlwifi && cp $src/realtek/rtlwifi/rtl8192cfw.bin $out/rtlwifi/rtl8192cfw.bin";
 
   meta = {
     description = "Firmware for the Realtek RTL8192c wireless cards";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/zd1211/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/zd1211/default.nix
index dfc384b7adb..a717bd9e117 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/zd1211/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/firmware/zd1211/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   
   buildPhase = "true";
 
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/zd1211; cp * $out/zd1211";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/zd1211; cp * $out/zd1211";
   
   meta = {
     description = "Firmware for the ZyDAS ZD1211(b) 802.11a/b/g USB WLAN chip";
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/fxload/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/fxload/default.nix
index 455c11cb0a9..d21cdd78daf 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/fxload/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/fxload/default.nix
@@ -22,9 +22,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/sbin
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man8
-    ensureDir $out/share/usb
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man8
+    mkdir -p $out/share/usb
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.4.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.4.nix
index c179801ca55..32daf5633f7 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.4.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.4.nix
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     cp -a include/{asm,asm-$platform,acpi,linux,pcmcia,scsi,video} \
       $out/include
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.28.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.28.nix
index 98a06556a19..920ccf9363d 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.28.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.28.nix
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     make INSTALL_HDR_PATH=$out headers_install
 
     # Some builds (e.g. KVM) want a kernel.release.
-    ensureDir $out/include/config
+    mkdir -p $out/include/config
     echo "${version}-default" > $out/include/config/kernel.release
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.32.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.32.nix
index a4e86658193..a7ec522b3d6 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.32.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/2.6.32.nix
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     make INSTALL_HDR_PATH=$out headers_install
 
     # Some builds (e.g. KVM) want a kernel.release.
-    ensureDir $out/include/config
+    mkdir -p $out/include/config
     echo "${version}-default" > $out/include/config/kernel.release
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/default.nix
index c0f949186c6..f5fec3d8620 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel-headers/default.nix
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     make INSTALL_HDR_PATH=$out headers_install
 
     # Some builds (e.g. KVM) want a kernel.release.
-    ensureDir $out/include/config
+    mkdir -p $out/include/config
     echo "${version}-default" > $out/include/config/kernel.release
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel/builder.sh
index 61cb8f28081..5d6d48d2fc3 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kernel/builder.sh
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ configurePhase() {
 
 installPhase() {
 
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
 
     # New kernel versions have a combined tree for i386 and x86_64.
     archDir=$arch
@@ -60,7 +60,7 @@ installPhase() {
     # Copy the bzImage and System.map.
     cp System.map $out
     if test "$arch" = um; then
-        ensureDir $out/bin
+        mkdir -p $out/bin
         cp linux $out/bin
     elif test "$kernelTarget" != "vmlinux"; then
         # In any case we copy the 'vmlinux' ELF in the next lines
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/klibc/shrunk.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/klibc/shrunk.nix
index ff72d1f72b8..066b4fcb4e0 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/klibc/shrunk.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/klibc/shrunk.nix
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   #name = "${klibc.name}-shrunk";
   name = "${klibc.name}";
   buildCommand = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp -prd ${klibc}/lib/klibc/bin $out/
     cp -p ${klibc}/lib/*.so $out/lib/
     chmod +w $out/*
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kudzu/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kudzu/builder.sh
index 744d1d516a3..002bac8a1db 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kudzu/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/kudzu/builder.sh
@@ -3,10 +3,10 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 export DESTDIR=$out
 
 preInstall() {
-  ensureDir $out
-  ensureDir $out/etc
-  ensureDir $out/sbin
-  ensureDir $out/usr
+  mkdir -p $out
+  mkdir -p $out/etc
+  mkdir -p $out/sbin
+  mkdir -p $out/usr
   make install-program
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/libcap/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/libcap/default.nix
index d8cb393ac38..c279393d7a4 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/libcap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/libcap/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   passthru = {
     postinst = n : ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/doc/${n}
+      mkdir -p $out/share/doc/${n}
       cp ../License $out/share/doc/${n}/License
     '';
   };
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/lsiutil/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/lsiutil/default.nix
index 09cd4ab037c..700455d5f8b 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/lsiutil/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/lsiutil/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   preBuild =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       substituteInPlace Makefile --replace /usr/bin $out/bin
       substituteInPlace lsiutil.c \
         --replace /sbin/modprobe modprobe \
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/mingetty/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/mingetty/default.nix
index b27baa5480b..192e2c7ac5f 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/mingetty/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/mingetty/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/sbin $out/share/man/man8
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin $out/share/man/man8
     makeFlagsArray=(SBINDIR=$out/sbin MANDIR=$out/share/man/man8)
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nss_ldap/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nss_ldap/default.nix
index 34de5108164..7c8b526b4c3 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nss_ldap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nss_ldap/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     substituteInPlace Makefile \
       --replace '/usr$(libdir)' $TMPDIR \
       --replace 'install-data-local:' 'install-data-local-disabled:'
-    ensureDir $out/etc
+    mkdir -p $out/etc
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [openldap];
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/numactl/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/numactl/default.nix
index f329db90cb2..b9240805865 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/numactl/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/numactl/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   preInstall = ''
     # The `install' rule expects this directory to be available.
-    ensureDir "$out/share/man/man5"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man5"
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder-legacy.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder-legacy.sh
index 6941288b390..e0af21759c9 100755
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder-legacy.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder-legacy.sh
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 installPhase() {
 
     # Install libGL and friends.
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp -prd usr/lib/* usr/X11R6/lib/libXv* $out/lib/
 
     ln -snf libGLcore.so.$versionNumber $out/lib/libGLcore.so
@@ -59,11 +59,11 @@ installPhase() {
     if test -z "$libsOnly"; then
         
         # Install the kernel module.
-        ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
         cp usr/src/nv/nvidia.ko $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
 
         # Install the X driver.
-        ensureDir $out/lib/xorg/modules
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg/modules
         cp -prd usr/X11R6/lib/modules/* $out/lib/xorg/modules/
 
         ln -snf libnvidia-wfb.so.$versionNumber $out/lib/xorg/modules/libnvidia-wfb.so.1
@@ -72,7 +72,7 @@ installPhase() {
         patchelf --set-rpath $out/lib $out/lib/xorg/modules/extensions/libglx.so.*.*
 
         # Install the programs.
-        ensureDir $out/bin
+        mkdir -p $out/bin
 
         for i in nvidia-settings nvidia-xconfig; do
 	    cp usr/bin/$i $out/bin/$i
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder.sh
index 180eb84e5e4..b0d2bf35c52 100755
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/nvidia-x11/builder.sh
@@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ buildPhase() {
 installPhase() {
 
     # Install libGL and friends.
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp -prd libcuda.* libGL.* libnvidia-cfg.* libnvidia-compiler.* libnvidia-tls.* libnvidia-glcore.* libOpenCL.* libXv* libvdpau_nvidia* tls $out/lib/
     
     ln -snf libnvidia-glcore.so.$versionNumber $out/lib/libnvidia-glcore.so
@@ -50,15 +50,15 @@ installPhase() {
     if test -z "$libsOnly"; then
         
         # Install the kernel module.
-        ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
         cp kernel/nvidia.ko $out/lib/modules/$kernelVersion/misc
 
         # Install the X driver.
-        ensureDir $out/lib/xorg/modules
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg/modules
         cp -p libnvidia-wfb.* $out/lib/xorg/modules/
-        ensureDir $out/lib/xorg/modules/drivers
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg/modules/drivers
         cp -p nvidia_drv.so $out/lib/xorg/modules/drivers
-        ensureDir $out/lib/xorg/modules/extensions
+        mkdir -p $out/lib/xorg/modules/extensions
         cp -p libglx.so.* $out/lib/xorg/modules/extensions
 
         ln -snf libnvidia-wfb.so.$versionNumber $out/lib/xorg/modules/libnvidia-wfb.so.1
@@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ installPhase() {
         patchelf --set-rpath $out/lib $out/lib/xorg/modules/extensions/libglx.so.*.*
 
         # Install the programs.
-        ensureDir $out/bin
+        mkdir -p $out/bin
 
         for i in nvidia-settings nvidia-xconfig; do
 	    cp $i $out/bin/$i
@@ -76,16 +76,16 @@ installPhase() {
         done
     
         # Header files etc.
-        ensureDir $out/include/nvidia
+        mkdir -p $out/include/nvidia
         cp -p *.h $out/include/nvidia
 
-        ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+        mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
         cp -p *.1.gz $out/share/man/man1
 
-        ensureDir $out/share/applications
+        mkdir -p $out/share/applications
         cp -p *.desktop $out/share/applications
 
-        ensureDir $out/share/pixmaps
+        mkdir -p $out/share/pixmaps
         cp -p nvidia-settings.png $out/share/pixmaps
 
         # Patch the `nvidia-settings.desktop' file.
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/opengl/xorg-sys/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/opengl/xorg-sys/builder.sh
index 7ab20855bd3..cd21899e60e 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/opengl/xorg-sys/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/opengl/xorg-sys/builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/lib
+mkdir -p $out/lib
 
 ln -s /usr/lib/libGL.so.1 $out/lib/
 ln -s /usr/lib/libGLU.so.1 $out/lib/
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.30-builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.30-builder.sh
index 8bb282cacf7..21a2ac725ca 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.30-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.30-builder.sh
@@ -13,6 +13,6 @@ echo "version $version"
 
 export version
 
-ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$version/kernel/drivers/usb/media/
+mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$version/kernel/drivers/usb/media/
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.32-builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.32-builder.sh
index c189c2e1706..636b19a95af 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.32-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/ov511/ov511-2.32-builder.sh
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ echo "version $version"
 
 export version
 
-ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$version/kernel/drivers/usb/media/
+mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$version/kernel/drivers/usb/media/
 
 genericBuild
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/pcmciautils/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/pcmciautils/default.nix
index a8b885d8a94..b53c61c754a 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/pcmciautils/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/pcmciautils/default.nix
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     lib.concatMapStrings (path: ''
       for f in : $(find ${path} -type f); do
         test "$f" == ":" && continue;
-        ensureDir $(dirname $out/lib/firmware/$\{f#${path}});
+        mkdir -p $(dirname $out/lib/firmware/$\{f#${path}});
         ln -s $f $out/lib/firmware/$\{f#${path}};
       done;
     '') firmware;
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/qc-usb/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/qc-usb/builder.sh
index a43138fa84f..041be115328 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/qc-usb/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/qc-usb/builder.sh
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ echo "version $version"
 
 export version
 
-ensureDir $out/lib/modules/$version/misc
+mkdir -p $out/lib/modules/$version/misc
 
 LINUX_DIR=$kernel/lib/modules/$version/build
 PREFIX=$out
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/radeontools/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/radeontools/default.nix
index ff3cad3fe98..4dbe7e54247 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/radeontools/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/radeontools/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     chmod +x lightwatch.pl
     cp radeontool lightwatch.pl $out/bin
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/sysklogd/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/sysklogd/builder.sh
index 62df45ea7c9..d466f075652 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/sysklogd/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/sysklogd/builder.sh
@@ -6,8 +6,8 @@ export prefix
 installFlags="BINDIR=$out/sbin MANDIR=$out/share/man INSTALL=install"
 patchPhase="sed -e 's@-o \${MAN_USER} -g \${MAN_GROUP} -m \${MAN_PERMS} @@' -i Makefile"
 
-ensureDir "$out/share/man/man8/"
-ensureDir "$out/share/man/man5/"
-ensureDir "$out/sbin"
+mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man8/"
+mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man5/"
+mkdir -p "$out/sbin"
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tcp-wrapper/builder.sh b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tcp-wrapper/builder.sh
index 58bc1d4409d..7ea574fcf23 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tcp-wrapper/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tcp-wrapper/builder.sh
@@ -22,18 +22,18 @@ echo "building..."
 make REAL_DAEMON_DIR="$out/sbin" linux
 
 # Install
-ensureDir "$out/sbin"
+mkdir -p "$out/sbin"
 cp -v safe_finger tcpd tcpdchk tcpdmatch try-from "$out/sbin"
 
-ensureDir "$out/lib"
+mkdir -p "$out/lib"
 cp -v shared/lib*.so* "$out/lib"
 
-ensureDir "$out/include"
+mkdir -p "$out/include"
 cp -v *.h "$out/include"
 
-ensureDir "$out/man"
+mkdir -p "$out/man"
 for i in 3 5 8;
 do
-  ensureDir "$out/man/man$i"
+  mkdir -p "$out/man/man$i"
   cp *.$i "$out/man/man$i" ;
 done
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tunctl/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tunctl/default.nix
index f4c3aad938f..8ea3599ff19 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tunctl/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/tunctl/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   makeFlags = [ "tunctl" ];
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp tunctl $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/upstart/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/upstart/default.nix
index 4e440770ef9..3c5fb2283cd 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/upstart/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/upstart/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   postInstall =
     ''
       t=$out/etc/bash_completion.d
-      ensureDir $t
+      mkdir -p $t
       cp ${./upstart-bash-completion} $t/upstart
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wis-go7007/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wis-go7007/default.nix
index 73e5694572a..4fff3ed37c0 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wis-go7007/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wis-go7007/default.nix
@@ -61,9 +61,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     substituteInPlace Makefile \
         --replace '$(DESTDIR)$(KSRC)/include/linux' $includeDir \
         --replace '$(DESTDIR)$(FIRMWARE_DIR)' '$(FIRMWARE_DIR)'
-    ensureDir $includeDir
-    ensureDir $out/etc/hotplug/usb
-    ensureDir $out/etc/udev/rules.d
+    mkdir -p $includeDir
+    mkdir -p $out/etc/hotplug/usb
+    mkdir -p $out/etc/udev/rules.d
  
     makeFlagsArray=(KERNELSRC=$kernelSource \
         FIRMWARE_DIR=$out/firmware FXLOAD=${fxload}/sbin/fxload \
@@ -72,7 +72,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   ''; # */
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp apps/gorecord apps/modet $out/bin/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wpa_supplicant/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wpa_supplicant/default.nix
index fcb6641dfd9..a0e426e482b 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wpa_supplicant/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/wpa_supplicant/default.nix
@@ -35,10 +35,10 @@ in
     }) ];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man5 $out/share/man/man8
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man5 $out/share/man/man8
     cp -v doc/docbook/*.5 $out/share/man/man5/
     cp -v doc/docbook/*.8 $out/share/man/man8/
-    ensureDir $out/etc/dbus-1/system.d $out/share/dbus-1/system-services
+    mkdir -p $out/etc/dbus-1/system.d $out/share/dbus-1/system-services
     cp -v dbus/*service $out/share/dbus-1/system-services
     sed -e "s@/sbin/wpa_supplicant@$out&@" -i $out/share/dbus-1/system-services/*
     cp -v dbus/dbus-wpa_supplicant.conf $out/etc/dbus-1/system.d
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-multitouch/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-multitouch/default.nix
index f04297096d2..c5cc5f3b68f 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-multitouch/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-multitouch/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase = ''
     make DESTDIR="$out" LIBDIR="lib" install
-    ensureDir $out/include/xorg
+    mkdir -p $out/include/xorg
     echo -n "$confFile" > $out/include/xorg/10-multitouch.conf
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-wacom/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-wacom/default.nix
index 9cc25174c51..98446c70867 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-wacom/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/linux/xf86-input-wacom/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ncurses pkgconfig randrproto xorgserver xproto udev ];
 
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/X11/xorg.conf.d
+    mkdir -p $out/share/X11/xorg.conf.d
     configureFlags="--with-xorg-module-dir=$out/lib/xorg/modules
     --with-sdkdir=$out/include/xorg --with-xorg-conf-dir=$out/share/X11/xorg.conf.d"
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingw-headers/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingw-headers/default.nix
index c4e0063feec..c6941ef01f0 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingw-headers/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingw-headers/default.nix
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   phases = [ "installPhase" ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/include
     cp -R ${mingw_runtime_headers}/include/* $out/include
     cp -R ${w32api_headers}/include/* $out/include
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingwrt/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingwrt/default.nix
index aecf43c9123..434c439cd78 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingwrt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/mingwrt/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation (rec {
   name = name + "-headers";
   phases = [ "unpackPhase" "installPhase" ];
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R include $out
   '';
 } else {
diff --git a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/w32api/default.nix b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/w32api/default.nix
index 570b83f671e..56ab80c7235 100644
--- a/pkgs/os-specific/windows/w32api/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/os-specific/windows/w32api/default.nix
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation ({
   name = name + "-headers";
   phases = [ "unpackPhase" "installPhase" ];
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -R include $out
   '';
 } else {
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db-collector.nix b/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db-collector.nix
index 299bfc8ac2f..f635c98602d 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db-collector.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db-collector.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ let
 		}
 	";
 	installPhase = ''  
-  	ensureDir $out/share/dictd
+  	mkdir -p $out/share/dictd
 	cd $out/share/dictd
 	echo "${databases}" >databases.names 
 	echo "${accessSection}" > dictd.conf
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db.nix b/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db.nix
index 553b371d24c..c6c0bc73a08 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/dict/dictd-db.nix
@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ with builderDefs;
 	let localDefs = builderDefs.passthru.function (rec {
 		src=_src;
 		doInstall = fullDepEntry (''
-			ensureDir $out/share/dictd
+			mkdir -p $out/share/dictd
 			tar xf  ${src}
 			cp $(ls ./${_subdir}/*.{dict*,index} || true) $out/share/dictd 
 			echo "${_locale}" >$out/share/dictd/locale
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/felix/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/felix/default.nix
index c600573ba86..aa40365e8de 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/felix/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/felix/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   ''
     tar xfvz $src
     cd felix-framework-*
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -av * $out
   '';
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/felix/remoteshell.nix b/pkgs/servers/felix/remoteshell.nix
index 4d6a8d8318f..6e8089d32e9 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/felix/remoteshell.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/felix/remoteshell.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
   buildCommand = 
   ''
-    ensureDir $out/bundle
+    mkdir -p $out/bundle
     cp ${src} $out/bundle/org.apache.felix.shell.remote-1.0.4.jar
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/fingerd/bsd-fingerd/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/fingerd/bsd-fingerd/default.nix
index 5e5d91fa820..2fab0fd9910 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/fingerd/bsd-fingerd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/fingerd/bsd-fingerd/default.nix
@@ -16,5 +16,5 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   preBuild = "cd fingerd";
 
-  preInstall = '' ensureDir $out/man/man8 $out/sbin '';
+  preInstall = '' mkdir -p $out/man/man8 $out/sbin '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/games/ghost-one/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/games/ghost-one/default.nix
index 2fd9a45dfc0..f90b5e40997 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/games/ghost-one/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/games/ghost-one/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     make
     cd ../../../StormLib/stormlib/
     make
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cd ../..
 #    cp bncsutil/src/bncsutil/libbncutil.so $out/lib
 #    cp StormLib/stormlib/libStorm.so $out/lib
@@ -30,14 +30,14 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
     cp bncsutil/src/bncsutil/libbncsutil.so $out/lib
     cp StormLib/stormlib/libStorm.so $out/lib
 
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp ghost/ghost++ $out/bin
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/ghost-one/languages
+    mkdir -p $out/share/ghost-one/languages
     cp -r mapcfgs $out/share/ghost-one
     cp Languages/*.cfg $out/share/ghost-one/languages
     cp language.cfg $out/share/ghost-one/languages/English.cfg
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/mod_python/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/mod_python/default.nix
index a59fa60c4c7..b36327ff520 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/mod_python/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/mod_python/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preInstall = ''
     installFlags="LIBEXECDIR=$out/modules $installFlags"
-    ensureDir $out/modules
+    mkdir -p $out/modules
   '';
 
   passthru = { inherit apacheHttpd; };
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/tomcat-connectors/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/tomcat-connectors/builder.sh
index 70b609e6465..52efe537c9b 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/tomcat-connectors/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/apache-modules/tomcat-connectors/builder.sh
@@ -4,5 +4,5 @@ tar xfvz $src
 cd tomcat-connectors-*-src/native
 ./configure --with-apxs=$apacheHttpd/bin/apxs --with-java-home=$jdk
 make
-ensureDir $out/modules
+mkdir -p $out/modules
 cp apache-2.0/mod_jk.so $out/modules
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/default.nix
index 41eff4cf967..2f0b9be96b0 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -av * $out
   '';
   
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
index 06d60fc5e12..6af39a0cb63 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/jboss/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
@@ -1,5 +1,5 @@
 buildInputs="$mysql_jdbc"
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/server/default/lib
+mkdir -p $out/server/default/lib
 ln -s $mysql_jdbc/share/java/mysql-connector-java.jar $out/server/default/lib/mysql-connector-java.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/jetty/6.1/bin-builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/http/jetty/6.1/bin-builder.sh
index d19f42eb45c..bec0663bee7 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/jetty/6.1/bin-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/jetty/6.1/bin-builder.sh
@@ -3,5 +3,5 @@ set -e
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 unzip $src
-ensureDir $out/$name
+mkdir -p $out/$name
 mv jetty*/* $out/$name
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/joseki/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/http/joseki/default.nix
index 0a83dd09601..1a7e6f6d16c 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/joseki/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/joseki/default.nix
@@ -72,12 +72,12 @@ rec {
 
     mv lib/slf4j-simple-*.jar lib/obsolete
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share"
     TARGET="$out/share/${name}-dist"
     cp -r . "$TARGET"
     ln -s  "$TARGET/lib" "$out/lib"
     chmod a+x "$TARGET/bin/"*
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
 
     echo -e '#! /bin/sh\nls "'"$TARGET"'"/bin' > "$out/bin/jena-list-commands"
     echo '#! /bin/sh' >> "$out/bin/jena-command"
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/axis2/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/axis2/builder.sh
index 91d300822a7..2e36367e9dc 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/axis2/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/axis2/builder.sh
@@ -2,12 +2,12 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 unzip $src
 cd axis2-*
-ensureDir $out
+mkdir -p $out
 cp -av * $out
 cd webapp
 ant
 cd ..
-ensureDir $out/webapps
+mkdir -p $out/webapps
 cp dist/axis2.war $out/webapps
 cd $out/webapps
 mkdir axis2
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
index 4a7248dfc8d..14829c5e85d 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/http/tomcat/jdbc/mysql/builder.sh
@@ -1,4 +1,4 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/lib
+mkdir -p $out/lib
 ln -s $mysql_jdbc/share/java/mysql-connector-java.jar $out/lib/mysql-connector-java.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/mail/postfix/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/mail/postfix/default.nix
index 0fa2bf821a4..16d9127e556 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/mail/postfix/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/mail/postfix/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     mv ut/$out/* $out/
 
     mkdir $out/share/postfix/conf
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/monitoring/zabbix/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/monitoring/zabbix/default.nix
index 41e617d80b6..df3fea05f77 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/monitoring/zabbix/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/monitoring/zabbix/default.nix
@@ -33,11 +33,11 @@ in
 
     postInstall =
       ''
-        ensureDir $out/share/zabbix
+        mkdir -p $out/share/zabbix
         cp -prvd frontends/php $out/share/zabbix/php
-        ensureDir $out/share/zabbix/db/data
+        mkdir -p $out/share/zabbix/db/data
         cp -prvd create/data/*.sql $out/share/zabbix/db/data
-        ensureDir $out/share/zabbix/db/schema
+        mkdir -p $out/share/zabbix/db/schema
         cp -prvd create/schema/*.sql $out/share/zabbix/db/schema
       '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/portmap/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/portmap/default.nix
index 9d8a641b4a8..aaa9bb684f4 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/portmap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/portmap/default.nix
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ tcpWrapper ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/sbin" && ensureDir "$out/man/man8" && \
+    mkdir -p "$out/sbin" && ensureDir "$out/man/man8" && \
     make install BASEDIR=$out
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/sql/mysql/jdbc/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/sql/mysql/jdbc/builder.sh
index 29ecbc1aebe..56336e04135 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/sql/mysql/jdbc/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/sql/mysql/jdbc/builder.sh
@@ -5,5 +5,5 @@ set -e
 unzip $src
 cd mysql-connector-java-*
 
-ensureDir $out/share/java
+mkdir -p $out/share/java
 cp mysql-connector-java-*-bin.jar $out/share/java/mysql-connector-java.jar
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/sql/postgresql/jdbc/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/sql/postgresql/jdbc/builder.sh
index 318a4e637a0..2fccb686629 100755
--- a/pkgs/servers/sql/postgresql/jdbc/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/sql/postgresql/jdbc/builder.sh
@@ -6,5 +6,5 @@ tar zxvf $src
 cd postgresql-jdbc-*
 ant
 
-ensureDir $out/share/java
+mkdir -p $out/share/java
 cp jars/*.jar $out/share/java
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/builder.sh b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/builder.sh
index c33d1806fd6..bb776a5051b 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/builder.sh
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ postInstall() {
         fi
     done
 
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
     echo "$propagatedBuildInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs"
     echo "$propagatedBuildNativeInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-native-inputs"
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/imake.sh b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/imake.sh
index 131ce0e832c..4ab5e2ae160 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/imake.sh
+++ b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/imake.sh
@@ -1,5 +1,5 @@
 preInstall() {
-    ensureDir $out/lib/X11/config
+    mkdir -p $out/lib/X11/config
     ln -s $xorgcffiles/lib/X11/config/* $out/lib/X11/config
     #touch $out/lib/X11/config/host.def # !!! hack
     #touch $out/lib/X11/config/date.def # !!! hack
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/overrides.nix b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/overrides.nix
index f260ce90cb5..a1d2040483d 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/overrides.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/x11/xorg/overrides.nix
@@ -114,7 +114,7 @@ in
   setxkbmap = attrs: attrs // {
     postInstall =
       ''
-        ensureDir $out/share
+        mkdir -p $out/share
         ln -sfn ${args.xkeyboard_config}/etc/X11 $out/share/X11
       '';
   };
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyIRCt/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyIRCt/default.nix
index 161942519e8..27982601f73 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyIRCt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyIRCt/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ rec {
   /* doConfigure should be removed if not needed */
   phaseNames = ["deploy" (a.makeManyWrappers "$out/share/${name}/irc.py" a.pythonWrapperArguments)];
   deploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/${name}
     sed -e 's@/usr/bin/@${a.python}/bin/@' -i irc.py
     sed -e '/configFiles/aconfigFiles += [os.getenv("HOME")+"/.pyIRCt.xml"]' -i config.py
     sed -e '/configFiles/aconfigFiles += [os.getenv("HOME")+"/.python-irc-transport.xml"]' -i config.py
diff --git a/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyMAILt/default.nix b/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyMAILt/default.nix
index a4dcd5a4812..e763d2dce5b 100644
--- a/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyMAILt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/servers/xmpp/pyMAILt/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["deploy" (a.makeManyWrappers "$out/share/${name}/mail.py" a.pythonWrapperArguments)];
   deploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
     cd mail-transport
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/${name}
     sed -e 's@/usr/bin/@${a.python}/bin/@' -i mail.py
     sed -e '/configFiles/aconfigFiles += [os.getenv("HOME")+"/.pyMAILt.xml"]' -i config.py
     sed -e '/configFiles/aconfigFiles += [os.getenv("HOME")+"/.python-mail-transport.xml"]' -i config.py
diff --git a/pkgs/shells/zsh/default.nix b/pkgs/shells/zsh/default.nix
index 6b199e165d0..4fd717fa936 100644
--- a/pkgs/shells/zsh/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/shells/zsh/default.nix
@@ -27,9 +27,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   # XXX: think/discuss about this, also with respect to nixos vs nix-on-X
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/
+    mkdir -p $out/share/
     tar xf ${documentation} -C $out/share
-    ensureDir $out/etc/
+    mkdir -p $out/etc/
     cat > $out/etc/zprofile <<EOF
 if test -e /etc/NIXOS; then
   if test -r /etc/zprofile; then
diff --git a/pkgs/stdenv/adapters.nix b/pkgs/stdenv/adapters.nix
index 11ee83b9456..dc9314f6885 100644
--- a/pkgs/stdenv/adapters.nix
+++ b/pkgs/stdenv/adapters.nix
@@ -83,10 +83,10 @@ rec {
           + " --disable-shared"; # brrr...
 
         NIX_GCC = runCommand "klibc-wrapper" {} ''
-          ensureDir $out/bin
+          mkdir -p $out/bin
           ln -s ${klibc}/bin/klcc $out/bin/gcc
           ln -s ${klibc}/bin/klcc $out/bin/cc
-          ensureDir $out/nix-support
+          mkdir -p $out/nix-support
           echo 'PATH=$PATH:${stdenv.gcc.binutils}/bin' > $out/nix-support/setup-hook
         '';
       });
@@ -209,7 +209,7 @@ rec {
 
         moveBuildDir =
           ''
-            ensureDir $out/.build
+            mkdir -p $out/.build
             cd $out/.build
           '';
       } stdenv;
diff --git a/pkgs/stdenv/generic/setup.sh b/pkgs/stdenv/generic/setup.sh
index 62327396239..660ae0c1490 100644
--- a/pkgs/stdenv/generic/setup.sh
+++ b/pkgs/stdenv/generic/setup.sh
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ exitHandler() {
         # normally.  Otherwise, return the original exit code.
         if test -n "$succeedOnFailure"; then
             echo "build failed with exit code $exitCode (ignored)"
-            ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+            mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
             echo -n $exitCode > "$out/nix-support/failed"
             exit 0
         fi
@@ -139,7 +139,7 @@ ensureDir() {
 }
 
 installBin() {
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp "$@" $out/bin
 }
 
@@ -682,7 +682,7 @@ patchShebangs() {
 installPhase() {
     runHook preInstall
 
-    ensureDir "$prefix"
+    mkdir -p "$prefix"
 
     installTargets=${installTargets:-install}
     echo "install flags: $installTargets $makeFlags ${makeFlagsArray[@]} $installFlags ${installFlagsArray[@]}"
@@ -709,7 +709,7 @@ fixupPhase() {
                     echo "both $d/ and share/$d/ exists!"
                 else
                     echo "fixing location of $d/ subdirectory"
-                    ensureDir $prefix/share
+                    mkdir -p $prefix/share
                     if test -w $prefix/share; then
                         mv -v $prefix/$d $prefix/share
                         ln -sv share/$d $prefix
@@ -755,17 +755,17 @@ fixupPhase() {
     fi
 
     if test -n "$propagatedBuildInputs"; then
-        ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+        mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
         echo "$propagatedBuildInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs"
     fi
 
     if test -n "$propagatedBuildNativeInputs"; then
-        ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+        mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
         echo "$propagatedBuildNativeInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-native-inputs"
     fi
 
     if test -n "$setupHook"; then
-        ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+        mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
         substituteAll "$setupHook" "$out/nix-support/setup-hook"
     fi
 
@@ -780,7 +780,7 @@ distPhase() {
     make ${makefile:+-f $makefile} $distFlags "${distFlagsArray[@]}" ${distTarget:-dist}
 
     if test "$dontCopyDist" != 1; then
-        ensureDir "$out/tarballs"
+        mkdir -p "$out/tarballs"
 
         # Note: don't quote $tarballs, since we explicitly permit
         # wildcards in there.
diff --git a/pkgs/stdenv/linux/default.nix b/pkgs/stdenv/linux/default.nix
index 62ad647064e..900b6253c71 100644
--- a/pkgs/stdenv/linux/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/stdenv/linux/default.nix
@@ -123,7 +123,7 @@ rec {
   bootstrapGlibc = stdenvLinuxBoot0.mkDerivation {
     name = "bootstrap-glibc";
     buildCommand = ''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       ln -s ${bootstrapTools}/lib $out/lib
       ln -s ${bootstrapTools}/include-glibc $out/include
     '';
diff --git a/pkgs/stdenv/linux/make-bootstrap-tools.nix b/pkgs/stdenv/linux/make-bootstrap-tools.nix
index ba2a953a457..a780574539f 100644
--- a/pkgs/stdenv/linux/make-bootstrap-tools.nix
+++ b/pkgs/stdenv/linux/make-bootstrap-tools.nix
@@ -92,7 +92,7 @@ rec {
 
       buildCommand = ''
 	set -x
-        ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib $out/libexec
+        mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib $out/libexec
 
         # Copy what we need of Glibc.
         cp -d ${glibc}/lib/ld*.so* $out/lib
diff --git a/pkgs/stdenv/mingw/setup.sh b/pkgs/stdenv/mingw/setup.sh
index 2bc961dfaed..4de3c0ddc9b 100755
--- a/pkgs/stdenv/mingw/setup.sh
+++ b/pkgs/stdenv/mingw/setup.sh
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ exitHandler() {
         # normally.  Otherwise, return the original exit code.
         if test -n "$succeedOnFailure"; then
             echo "build failed with exit code $exitCode (ignored)"
-            ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+            mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
             echo -n $exitCode > "$out/nix-support/failed"
             exit 0
         fi
@@ -133,7 +133,7 @@ ensureDir() {
 }
 
 installBin() {
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp "$@" $out/bin
 }
 
@@ -611,7 +611,7 @@ patchShebangs() {
 installPhase() {
     runHook preInstall
 
-    ensureDir "$prefix"
+    mkdir -p "$prefix"
 
     installTargets=${installTargets:-install}
     echo "install flags: $installTargets $makeFlags ${makeFlagsArray[@]} $installFlags ${installFlagsArray[@]}"
@@ -638,7 +638,7 @@ fixupPhase() {
                     echo "both $d/ and share/$d/ exists!"
                 else
                     echo "fixing location of $d/ subdirectory"
-                    ensureDir $prefix/share
+                    mkdir -p $prefix/share
                     if test -w $prefix/share; then
                         mv -v $prefix/$d $prefix/share
                         ln -sv $prefix/share/$d $prefix/$d
@@ -670,12 +670,12 @@ fixupPhase() {
     fi
 
     if test -n "$propagatedBuildInputs"; then
-        ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+        mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
         echo "$propagatedBuildInputs" > "$out/nix-support/propagated-build-inputs"
     fi
 
     if test -n "$setupHook"; then
-        ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+        mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
         substituteAll "$setupHook" "$out/nix-support/setup-hook"
     fi
 
@@ -690,7 +690,7 @@ distPhase() {
     make ${makefile:+-f $makefile} $distFlags "${distFlagsArray[@]}" ${distTarget:-dist}
 
     if test "$dontCopyDist" != 1; then
-        ensureDir "$out/tarballs"
+        mkdir -p "$out/tarballs"
 
         # Note: don't quote $tarballs, since we explicitly permit
         # wildcards in there.
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/X11/x2vnc/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/X11/x2vnc/default.nix
index a3d21ab1800..adc04b62944 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/X11/x2vnc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/X11/x2vnc/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
       xorg.libXrandr xorg.randrproto
     ];
 
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out";
 
   meta = {
     homepahe = http://fredrik.hubbe.net/x2vnc.html;
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/X11/x2x/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/X11/x2x/default.nix
index abe5c9b59d6..5d68e1da1ba 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/X11/x2x/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/X11/x2x/default.nix
@@ -16,8 +16,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/man/man1
     cp x2x $out/bin/
     cp x2x.1 $out/man/man1/
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/X11/xpra/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/X11/xpra/default.nix
index 0691521e44c..cf7692cc58a 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/X11/xpra/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/X11/xpra/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp -r install/* $out
 
     for i in $(cd $out/bin && ls); do
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/admin/tightvnc/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/admin/tightvnc/builder.sh
index 72fced37728..10590bbfcf1 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/admin/tightvnc/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/admin/tightvnc/builder.sh
@@ -31,13 +31,13 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
     ./vncinstall $out/bin $out/share/man
 
     # fix HTTP client:
     t=$out/share/tightvnc
-    ensureDir $t
+    mkdir -p $t
     sed -i "s@/usr/local/vnc/classes@$out/vnc/classes@g" $out/bin/vncserver
     cp -r classes $t
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/archivers/unarj/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/archivers/unarj/default.nix
index 7a15514a728..0852674e8c8 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/archivers/unarj/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/archivers/unarj/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     sed -i -e s,/usr/local/bin,$out/bin, Makefile
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/cd-dvd/unetbootin/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/cd-dvd/unetbootin/default.nix
index 20d5ae7715e..b1fd5a10c2b 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/cd-dvd/unetbootin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/cd-dvd/unetbootin/default.nix
@@ -41,13 +41,13 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/bin
+      mkdir -p $out/bin
       cp unetbootin $out/bin
 
-      ensureDir $out/share/unetbootin
+      mkdir -p $out/share/unetbootin
       cp unetbootin_*.qm  $out/share/unetbootin
 
-      ensureDir $out/share/applications
+      mkdir -p $out/share/applications
       cp unetbootin.desktop $out/share/applications
 
       wrapProgram $out/bin/unetbootin \
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/compression/bsdiff/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/compression/bsdiff/builder.sh
index 1acb10cb794..f2792a40a60 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/compression/bsdiff/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/compression/bsdiff/builder.sh
@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 installFlags="PREFIX=$out INSTALL=install"
 
-ensureDir "$out/bin"
-ensureDir "$out/man/man1"
+mkdir -p "$out/bin"
+mkdir -p "$out/man/man1"
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/compression/bzip2/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/compression/bzip2/builder.sh
index ea2ebc4c2db..4610bdd4085 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/compression/bzip2/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/compression/bzip2/builder.sh
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ if test -n "$sharedLibrary"; then
     }
 
     preInstall() {
-        ensureDir $out/lib
+        mkdir -p $out/lib
         mv libbz2.so* $out/lib
         ln -s libbz2.so.1.0 $out/lib/libbz2.so
     }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/compression/upx/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/compression/upx/default.nix
index c3fd01d5c88..f3b8037a9f1 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/compression/upx/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/compression/upx/default.nix
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     cd src
   ";
 
-  installPhase = "ensureDir $out/bin ; cp upx.out $out/bin/upx";
+  installPhase = "mkdir -p $out/bin ; cp upx.out $out/bin/upx";
 
   meta = {
     homepage = http://upx.sourceforge.net/;
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/compression/zdelta/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/compression/zdelta/builder.sh
index 376c0bf4f39..03db413181d 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/compression/zdelta/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/compression/zdelta/builder.sh
@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
 installPhase() {
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp -p zdc zdu $out/bin
 }
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fsfs/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fsfs/default.nix
index 622424c302f..0e72c45e31a 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fsfs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fsfs/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/etc $out/var/lib
+    mkdir -p $out/etc $out/var/lib
     makeFlags="$makeFlags prefix=$out"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fusesmb/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fusesmb/default.nix
index d6d5c3a48aa..4ddab385a42 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fusesmb/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/fusesmb/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postInstall =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/lib
+      mkdir -p $out/lib
       ln -fs ${samba}/lib/libsmbclient.so $out/lib/libsmbclient.so.0
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/httpfs/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/httpfs/default.nix
index afa4be345a9..717b08acc5f 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/httpfs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/httpfs/default.nix
@@ -15,10 +15,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     ];
 
   installPhase =
-    '' ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/bin"
        cp -v httpfs2 "$out/bin"
 
-       ensureDir "$out/share/man/man1"
+       mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man1"
        cp -v *.1 "$out/share/man/man1"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/sshfs-fuse/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/sshfs-fuse/default.nix
index 606914cd976..fcb3c23ed1d 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/filesystems/sshfs-fuse/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/filesystems/sshfs-fuse/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   
   buildInputs = [ pkgconfig glib fuse ];
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/sbin
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin
     ln -sf $out/bin/sshfs $out/sbin/mount.sshfs
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/cfdg/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/cfdg/default.nix
index 435305f1e2a..26df8818b2b 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/cfdg/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/cfdg/default.nix
@@ -16,10 +16,10 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doMake" "copyFiles"];
 
   copyFiles = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp cfdg $out/bin/
 
-    ensureDir $out/share/doc/${name}
+    mkdir -p $out/share/doc/${name}
     cp *.txt $out/share/doc/${name}
   '' ["defEnsureDir" "doMake"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/cuneiform/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/cuneiform/default.nix
index 232b6c5464a..13f7d4b7f6f 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/cuneiform/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/cuneiform/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ rec {
   libc = if a.stdenv ? glibc then a.stdenv.glibc else "";
 
   doCmake = a.fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $PWD/builddir
+    mkdir -p $PWD/builddir
     cd builddir
     export NIX_LDFLAGS="$NIX_LDFLAGS -ldl -L$out/lib"
     cmake .. -DCMAKE_BUILD_TYPE=debug -DCMAKE_INSTALL_PREFIX=$out -DDL_LIB=${libc}/lib
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/dcraw/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/dcraw/default.nix
index 8ee02710b05..959241d30ab 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/dcraw/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/dcraw/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     set +e
     sh install
     set -e
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/exiftags/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/exiftags/default.nix
index 32048db4154..531e17b92cb 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/exiftags/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/exiftags/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/man/man1
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/glxinfo/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/glxinfo/default.nix
index 02db33f92cb..ed29b743d54 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/glxinfo/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/glxinfo/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   ";
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp glxinfo glxgears $out/bin/
   ";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/jhead/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/jhead/default.nix
index 2d98a1efdce..c497d60aef9 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/jhead/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/jhead/default.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/pdfread/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/pdfread/default.nix
index 1fc14445bbd..fd26174f197 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/pdfread/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/pdfread/default.nix
@@ -27,13 +27,13 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp pdfread.py $out/bin
     chmod +x $out/bin/pdfread.py
 
     LIBSUFFIX=lib/${python.libPrefix}/site-packages/
     PYDIR=$out/$LIBSUFFIX
-    ensureDir $PYDIR
+    mkdir -p $PYDIR
     cp -R *.py pylrs $PYDIR
 
     wrapProgram $out/bin/pdfread.py --prefix PYTHONPATH : $PYTHONPATH:${pil}/$LIBSUFFIX/PIL:$PYDIR \
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/ploticus/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/graphics/ploticus/builder.sh
index 89d4e3b98ea..2fb16b259bd 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/ploticus/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/ploticus/builder.sh
@@ -5,12 +5,12 @@ preBuild() {
 }
 
 preInstall() {
-  ensureDir $out/bin
+  mkdir -p $out/bin
 }
 
 postInstall() {
   # Install the "prefabs".
-  ensureDir $out/share/ploticus/prefabs &&		\
+  mkdir -p $out/share/ploticus/prefabs &&		\
   cd .. &&						\
   cp -rv prefabs/* $out/share/ploticus/prefabs
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/qrdecode/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/qrdecode/default.nix
index 16c91720964..edd0a96c689 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/qrdecode/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/qrdecode/default.nix
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ rec {
     cd ..
   '' ["doMake"];
   createDirs = fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib $out/include $out/share
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib $out/include $out/share
   '' ["defEnsureDir"];
 
   name = "libdecodeqr-" + version;
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/transfig/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/graphics/transfig/builder.sh
index f128c4ce364..c466f759446 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/transfig/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/transfig/builder.sh
@@ -31,8 +31,8 @@ buildPhase() {
 }
 
 preInstall() {
-    ensureDir $out
-    ensureDir $out/lib
+    mkdir -p $out
+    mkdir -p $out/lib
 }
 
 genericBuild
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/graphics/welkin/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/graphics/welkin/default.nix
index 0076b2a4a86..d02b38b4127 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/graphics/welkin/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/graphics/welkin/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
   doDeploy = a.simplyShare "welkin";
 
   createBin = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     echo "#! ${a.stdenv.shell}" > "$out/bin/welkin"
     echo "export JAVA_HOME=${jre}" >> "$out/bin/welkin"
     echo "\"$out/share/welkin/welkin.sh\" \"\$@\"" >> "$out/bin/welkin"
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/autojump/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/autojump/default.nix
index ac3aa5a6b1e..397e80a745e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/autojump/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/autojump/default.nix
@@ -21,10 +21,10 @@ let version = "4"; in
     buildInputs = [ python ];
 
     installPhase = ''
-      ensureDir "$out/bin" "$out/share/man/man1"
+      mkdir -p "$out/bin" "$out/share/man/man1"
       yes no | sh ./install.sh
 
-      ensureDir "$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
+      mkdir -p "$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
       cp -v autojump.bash "$out/etc/bash_completion.d"
 
       echo "Bash users: Make sure to source \`$out/etc/bash_completion.d/autojump.bash'"
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/debootstrap/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/debootstrap/default.nix
index 53027246b7f..33a1fc839ce 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/debootstrap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/debootstrap/default.nix
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   installPhase = ''
     cp -r . $out; cd $out
     t=bin/debootstrap
-    ensureDir bin man/man8
+    mkdir -p bin man/man8
     cat >> $t << EOF
     #!/bin/sh
     export DEBOOTSTRAP_DIR=$out/usr/share/debootstrap
@@ -66,7 +66,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   /* build from source:
   installPhase = ''
     cp ${devices} devices.tar.gz
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,man/man8};
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,man/man8};
     cp debootstrap.8 $out/man/man8
     sed -i  \
       -e 's@-o root@@'   \
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/dmg2img/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/dmg2img/default.nix
index 72e368e709e..b9a15ac6a20 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/dmg2img/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/dmg2img/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [zlib bzip2 openssl];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp dmg2img $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/dtach/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/dtach/default.nix
index d203419cd69..7ceecc3690a 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/dtach/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/dtach/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp dtach $out/bin/dtach
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/expect/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/expect/default.nix
index 9f0892bb0aa..a32e5abbb29 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/expect/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/expect/default.nix
@@ -32,5 +32,5 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     description = "A tool for automating interactive applications";
     homepage = http://expect.nist.gov/;
   };
-  postInstall="cp expect{,k} $out/bin; ensureDir $out/lib; cp *.so $out/lib";
+  postInstall="cp expect{,k} $out/bin; mkdir -p $out/lib; cp *.so $out/lib";
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/fdupes/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/fdupes/default.nix
index 04a0662a3b6..2de9efdac58 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/fdupes/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/fdupes/default.nix
@@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   # workaround: otherwise make install fails (should be fixed in trunk)
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/bin $out/man/man1";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/bin $out/man/man1";
 
   makeFlags = "PREFIX=\${out}";
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/figlet/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/figlet/default.nix
index 00265d1f31d..3f89713918f 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/figlet/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/figlet/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   preConfigure = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{man/man6,bin}
+    mkdir -p $out/{man/man6,bin}
     makeFlags="DESTDIR=$out/bin MANDIR=$out/man/man6 DEFAULTFONTDIR=$out/share/figlet"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/hddtemp/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/hddtemp/default.nix
index 202d28684d0..7db9324c281 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/hddtemp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/hddtemp/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   configurePhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/nix-support
+      mkdir -p $out/nix-support
       cp $db $out/nix-support/hddtemp.db
       ./configure --prefix=$out --with-db-path=$out/nix-support/hddtemp.db
     ''; 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/jdiskreport/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/misc/jdiskreport/builder.sh
index aa4ba13963c..1e73b674c15 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/jdiskreport/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/jdiskreport/builder.sh
@@ -2,11 +2,11 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 unzip $src
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 mv */*.jar $out/jars
 jar=$(ls $out/jars/jdiskreport-*.jar)
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cat > $out/bin/jdiskreport <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
 exec $jdk/bin/java -jar $jar
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/kermit/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/kermit/default.nix
index b664e9d92b6..db2d6cffc40 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/kermit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/kermit/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ ncurses ];
 
   unpackPhase = ''
-    ensureDir src
+    mkdir -p src
     pushd src
     tar xvzf $src
   '';
@@ -22,8 +22,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
   buildPhase = "make -f makefile linux";
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/man/man1
     make -f makefile install
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/memtest86/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/memtest86/default.nix
index 1e744afdf40..633d08e4c66 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/memtest86/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/memtest86/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE = "-I.";
   
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     cp memtest.bin $out/
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/myhasktags/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/myhasktags/default.nix
index 8c5eb24af48..62d4ee2579f 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/myhasktags/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/myhasktags/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
   phases="buildPhase";
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     ghc --make $src -o $out/bin/hasktags-modified
   '';
   buildInputs = [ ghcPlain ];
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/pk2cmd/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/pk2cmd/default.nix
index e3a9e7b87c3..37636da7235 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/pk2cmd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/pk2cmd/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   makeFlags = [ "LIBUSB=${libusb}" "linux" ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/pk2
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/pk2
     cp pk2cmd $out/bin
     cp PK2DeviceFile.dat $out/share/pk2
     wrapProgram $out/bin/pk2cmd --prefix PATH : $out/share/pk2
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/qjoypad/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/qjoypad/default.nix
index b6c69be2f09..a3a34d95fb5 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/qjoypad/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/qjoypad/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   patchPhase = ''
     cd src
     substituteInPlace config --replace /bin/bash /bin/sh
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     export NIX_LDFLAGS="$NIX_LDFLAGS -rpath ${libX11}/lib"
   '';
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/rockbox-utility/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/rockbox-utility/default.nix
index d2fa91d3fe8..4f271bcd623 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/rockbox-utility/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/rockbox-utility/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation  rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin 
+    mkdir -p $out/bin 
     cp RockboxUtility $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/shebangfix/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/shebangfix/default.nix
index 082b04b95d7..68f20df0577 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/shebangfix/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/shebangfix/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   phases = "buildPhase";
 
   buildPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     s=$out/bin/shebangfix
     cp $file $s
     chmod +wx $s
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/ttf2pt1/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/ttf2pt1/default.nix
index c112afaee0f..2deb8893f4e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/ttf2pt1/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/ttf2pt1/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     find -type f | xargs sed -i 's@/usr/bin/perl@${perl}/bin/perl@'
-    ensureDir $out
+    mkdir -p $out
     sed -e 's/chown/true/' \
         -e 's/chgrp/true/' \
         -e 's@^CFLAGS_FT =.*@CFLAGS_FT=-DUSE_FREETYPE -I${freetype}/include/freetype2@' \
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/ttmkfdir/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/ttmkfdir/default.nix
index e4e8d3c3e9b..3f05d600944 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/ttmkfdir/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/ttmkfdir/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     ];
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out; makeFlags="DESTDIR=$out BINDIR=/bin"
+    mkdir -p $out; makeFlags="DESTDIR=$out BINDIR=/bin"
   '';
 
   buildInputs = [freetype fontconfig libunwind libtool flex bison];
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/vfdecrypt/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/vfdecrypt/default.nix
index 46a841113a1..5692aecebbf 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/vfdecrypt/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/vfdecrypt/default.nix
@@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
   buildInputs = [openssl];
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp vfdecrypt $out/bin
   '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/w3c-css-validator/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/w3c-css-validator/default.nix
index 93231397feb..5cfe8737638 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/w3c-css-validator/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/w3c-css-validator/default.nix
@@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
           -e '/untar/d' \
           build.xml
     ant
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,lib}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,lib}
     JAR=$out/lib/css-validator.jar
     cat >> $out/bin/css-validator << EOF
     #!/bin/sh
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/misc/xdaliclock/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/misc/xdaliclock/default.nix
index cb2631bd5d8..74ee8b5b548 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/misc/xdaliclock/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/misc/xdaliclock/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doConfigure" "prepareDirs" "doMakeInstall"];
 
   prepareDirs = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin" "$out/share" "$out/share/man/man1"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin" "$out/share" "$out/share/man/man1"
   '' ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   goSrcDir = "cd X11";
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/altermime/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/altermime/default.nix
index a98f307c77d..8335b0eb8db 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/altermime/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/altermime/default.nix
@@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doPatch" "fixTarget" "doMakeInstall"];
   fixTarget = a.fullDepEntry (''
     sed -i Makefile -e "s@/usr/local@$out@"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
   '') ["doUnpack" "minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
       
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/bsd-finger/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/bsd-finger/default.nix
index fc29af989ce..808c738110e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/bsd-finger/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/bsd-finger/default.nix
@@ -16,5 +16,5 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   preBuild = "cd finger";
 
-  preInstall = '' ensureDir $out/man/man1 $out/bin '';
+  preInstall = '' mkdir -p $out/man/man1 $out/bin '';
 }
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/cntlm/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/cntlm/default.nix
index f5865020785..cd3ae12a11b 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/cntlm/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/cntlm/default.nix
@@ -11,9 +11,9 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ which ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin; cp cntlm $out/bin/;
-    ensureDir $out/share/; cp COPYRIGHT README VERSION doc/cntlm.conf $out/share/;
-    ensureDir $out/man/; cp doc/cntlm.1 $out/man/;
+    mkdir -p $out/bin; cp cntlm $out/bin/;
+    mkdir -p $out/share/; cp COPYRIGHT README VERSION doc/cntlm.conf $out/share/;
+    mkdir -p $out/man/; cp doc/cntlm.1 $out/man/;
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/ddclient/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/ddclient/default.nix
index 7c1e89083b8..e57ba489450 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/ddclient/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/ddclient/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ buildPerlPackage {
   ''; 
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp ddclient $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/dnstop/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/dnstop/default.nix
index cdab68f22ea..c9e1b58d2d2 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/dnstop/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/dnstop/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ libpcap ncurses ];
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man8 $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man8 $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = { 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/eggdrop/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/eggdrop/default.nix
index c55688d5060..8649eda4bf7 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/eggdrop/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/eggdrop/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   preConfigure = ''
     prefix=$out/eggdrop
-    ensureDir $prefix
+    mkdir -p $prefix
   '';
 
   postConfigure = ''
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/flvstreamer/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/flvstreamer/default.nix
index c3ac4e205ae..cbc07522019 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/flvstreamer/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/flvstreamer/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp flvstreamer $out/bin
     cp streams $out/bin
     cp rtmpsrv $out/bin
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/host/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/host/default.nix
index 9383b857a3a..c74dbe52829 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/host/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/host/default.nix
@@ -11,8 +11,8 @@ let version = "20000331"; in
 
     preConfigure = ''
       makeFlagsArray=(DESTBIN=$out/bin DESTMAN=$out/share/man OWNER=$(id -u) GROUP=$(id -g))
-      ensureDir "$out/bin"
-      ensureDir "$out/share/man/man1"
+      mkdir -p "$out/bin"
+      mkdir -p "$out/share/man/man1"
     '';
 
     installTargets = "install man";
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpc/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpc/default.nix
index 1039cadb3ee..34ec8eed90e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpc/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postInstall =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/man/man3
+      mkdir -p $out/share/man/man3
       cp man3/miniupnpc.3 $out/share/man/man3/
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpd/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpd/default.nix
index 5d62222d141..6db47f8e079 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/miniupnpd/default.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   postInstall =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+      mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
       cp miniupnpd.1 $out/share/man/man1/
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/netboot/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/netboot/default.nix
index a834ffc3739..684507a1d2e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/netboot/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/netboot/default.nix
@@ -37,7 +37,7 @@ rec {
   '' ["doUnpack" "addInputs"];
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp netboot "$out/bin"
   '' ["defEnsureDir" "minInit"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/netkit/tftp/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/netkit/tftp/default.nix
index adf85a981d1..6b9763972df 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/netkit/tftp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/netkit/tftp/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   preInstall = "
-    ensureDir $out/man/man{1,8} $out/sbin $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/man/man{1,8} $out/sbin $out/bin
   ";
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/openssh/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/openssh/default.nix
index 69243b4f68e..7cadf8a1345 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/openssh/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/openssh/default.nix
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   preConfigure =
     ''
       configureFlags="$configureFlags --with-privsep-path=$out/empty"
-      ensureDir $out/empty
+      mkdir -p $out/empty
     '';
 
   postInstall =
@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
       chmod +x $out/bin/ssh-copy-id
       cp contrib/ssh-copy-id.1 $out/share/man/man1/
 
-      ensureDir $out/etc/ssh
+      mkdir -p $out/etc/ssh
       cp moduli $out/etc/ssh/
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/azureus/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/azureus/builder.sh
index 13b7a483192..9d41dba2e43 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/azureus/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/azureus/builder.sh
@@ -1,9 +1,9 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 cp $src $out/jars/azureus.jar
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cat > $out/bin/azureus <<EOF
 #! $SHELL -e
 azureusHome=$out
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/rtorrent/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/rtorrent/default.nix
index 4056c6429b0..ae52865eace 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/rtorrent/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/rtorrent/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildInputs = [ libtorrent ncurses pkgconfig libsigcxx curl zlib openssl ];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
     mv doc/rtorrent.1 $out/share/man/man1/rtorrent.1
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/tahoe-lafs/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/tahoe-lafs/default.nix
index b48600a9f99..5ef4a640d2a 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/tahoe-lafs/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/p2p/tahoe-lafs/default.nix
@@ -66,7 +66,7 @@ buildPythonPackage {
     # something writable doesn't help; providing $FONTCONFIG_FILE doesn't
     # help either.  So we just don't run `make' under `docs/'.
 
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc/${name}"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/${name}"
     cp -rv "docs/"* "$out/share/doc/${name}"
     find "$out/share/doc/${name}" -name Makefile -exec rm -v {} \;
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/philter/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/philter/default.nix
index 8ade37976b6..7457a72b5d5 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/philter/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/philter/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
 
   installProgram = a.fullDepEntry(''
     mv "$out/share/philter/".*rc "$out/share/philter/philterrc"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin"
     cp "$out/share/philter/src/philter.py" "$out/bin/philter"
     chmod a+x "$out/bin/philter"
   '') ["addInputs" "copyToShare" "minInit"];
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/ripmime/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/ripmime/default.nix
index 895b2c4be4f..07196b77d0a 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/ripmime/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/ripmime/default.nix
@@ -30,7 +30,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["fixTarget" "doMakeInstall"];
   fixTarget = a.fullDepEntry (''
     sed -i Makefile -e "s@LOCATION=.*@LOCATION=$out@"
-    ensureDir "$out/bin" "$out/man/man1"
+    mkdir -p "$out/bin" "$out/man/man1"
   '') ["doUnpack" "minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
       
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/rp-pppoe/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/rp-pppoe/default.nix
index 8a704bb5711..5079b951a64 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/rp-pppoe/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/rp-pppoe/default.nix
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ rec {
   '') ["minInit" "doUnpack"];
 
   makeDirs = a.fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $out/share/${name}/etc/ppp
+    mkdir -p $out/share/${name}/etc/ppp
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
 
   name = "rp-pppoe-" + version;
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/s3sync/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/s3sync/default.nix
index 8ed71c34523..48788d36884 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/s3sync/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/s3sync/default.nix
@@ -12,12 +12,12 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out/libexec/s3sync
+      mkdir -p $out/libexec/s3sync
       cp *.rb $out/libexec/s3sync
       makeWrapper "${ruby}/bin/ruby $out/libexec/s3sync/s3cmd.rb" $out/bin/s3cmd
       makeWrapper "${ruby}/bin/ruby $out/libexec/s3sync/s3sync.rb" $out/bin/s3sync
 
-      ensureDir $out/share/doc/s3sync
+      mkdir -p $out/share/doc/s3sync
       cp README* $out/share/doc/s3sync/
     ''; # */
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/siege/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/siege/default.nix
index bb588f36599..ebbfcb5d360 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/siege/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/siege/default.nix
@@ -29,7 +29,7 @@ rec {
   phaseNames = ["doConfigure" "createDirs" "doMakeInstall"];
 
   createDirs = a.fullDepEntry ''
-    ensureDir "$out/"{bin,lib,share/man,etc}
+    mkdir -p "$out/"{bin,lib,share/man,etc}
   '' ["defEnsureDir"];
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/slimrat/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/slimrat/default.nix
index 38b7c27b6fd..9006fadfcdb 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/slimrat/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/slimrat/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/share/slimrat $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/slimrat $out/bin
     cp -R src/* $out/share/slimrat
     # slimrat-gui does not work (it needs the Gtk2 perl package)
     for i in slimrat; do
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/stun/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/stun/default.nix
index 65a1d241c0b..795c0cfc8cc 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/stun/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/stun/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,man/man8,man/man1}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,man/man8,man/man1}
     cp client $out/bin/stun
     cp server $out/bin/stund
     cp debian/manpages/stund.8 $out/man/man8
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/swec/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/swec/default.nix
index 4cb47fada06..007efa42827 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/swec/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/swec/default.nix
@@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   installPhase =
     '' make install prefix="$out"
 
-       ensureDir "$out/share/${name}"
+       mkdir -p "$out/share/${name}"
        cp -v default.sdf "$out/share/${name}"
        sed -i "$out/bin/swec" -e"s|realpath(\$0)|'$out/share/${name}/swec'|g"
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/tcng/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/tcng/default.nix
index dd2082d30b2..062977b455c 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/tcng/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/tcng/default.nix
@@ -64,7 +64,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   # manually copy tcc and include files.. see comment above
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out{,/sbin,/lib/tcng/include}
+    mkdir -p $out{,/sbin,/lib/tcng/include}
     make DESTDIR=$out install
     cp tcc/tcc $out/sbin
     cp tcc/*.tc $out/lib/tcng/include
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/uwimap/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/uwimap/default.nix
index 7d72016cfe2..8c8c0241204 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/uwimap/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/uwimap/default.nix
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/lib $out/include
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/lib $out/include
     cp c-client/*.h c-client/linkage.c $out/include
     cp c-client/c-client.a $out/lib/libc-client.a
     cp mailutil/mailutil imapd/imapd dmail/dmail mlock/mlock mtest/mtest tmail/tmail \
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/wakelan/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/wakelan/default.nix
index 6cc18ec8678..837ab3627fa 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/wakelan/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/wakelan/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   };
 
   preInstall = ''
-    ensureDir $out/man/man1 $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/man/man1 $out/bin
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/networking/wicd/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/networking/wicd/default.nix
index 19f30713a9f..9c1f8c8dd39 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/networking/wicd/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/networking/wicd/default.nix
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
 
   installPhase = ''
     python setup.py install --prefix=$out
-    ensureDir $out/share/other
+    mkdir -p $out/share/other
     cp other/dhclient.conf.template.default $out/share/other/dhclient.conf.template.default
 
     # Add a template for "WPA2 Enterprise" encryption as used, e.g., by the
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/bmrsa/11.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/bmrsa/11.nix
index 0a830e75d80..3200d27c004 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/bmrsa/11.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/bmrsa/11.nix
@@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ rec {
     cd bmrsa 
     unzip ${src}
     sed -e 's/gcc/g++/' -i Makefile
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     echo -e 'install:\n\tcp bmrsa '$out'/bin' >> Makefile
   '') ["minInit" "addInputs" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/chkrootkit/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/chkrootkit/default.nix
index e7545ac8cd6..73f7f8c9ae5 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/chkrootkit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/chkrootkit/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   };
 
   installPhase = "
-    ensureDir $out/sbin
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin
     cp check_wtmpx chkdirs chklastlog chkproc chkrootkit chkutmp chkwtmp ifpromisc strings-static $out/sbin
   ";
   
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/metasploit/3.1.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/metasploit/3.1.nix
index 94bc009080d..e02ce1316ba 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/metasploit/3.1.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/metasploit/3.1.nix
@@ -9,8 +9,8 @@ rec {
   configureFlags = [];
 
   doInstall = fullDepEntry(''
-    ensureDir $out/share/msf
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/msf
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
 
     cp -r * $out/share/msf
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/opensc-dnie-wrapper/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/opensc-dnie-wrapper/default.nix
index ec649790e67..b36d99f8ebf 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/opensc-dnie-wrapper/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/opensc-dnie-wrapper/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   phases = [ "installPhase" ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/etc
+    mkdir -p $out/etc
     cp ${opensc}/etc/opensc.conf $out/etc
     chmod +w $out/etc/opensc.conf
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/pius/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/pius/default.nix
index d5462a1120a..3ca41032815 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/pius/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/pius/default.nix
@@ -19,10 +19,10 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   buildPhase = "true";
 
   installPhase =
-    '' ensureDir "$out/bin"
+    '' mkdir -p "$out/bin"
        cp -v pius "$out/bin"
 
-       ensureDir "$out/doc/pius-${version}"
+       mkdir -p "$out/doc/pius-${version}"
        cp -v README "$out/doc/pius-${version}"
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/seccure/0.4.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/seccure/0.4.nix
index 0a1452e5355..33a77c07844 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/seccure/0.4.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/seccure/0.4.nix
@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   preConfigure = ''
     sed -e s@/usr/@$out/@g -i Makefile
     sed -e 's@ln -f@ln -sf@g' -i Makefile
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/security/ssss/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/security/ssss/default.nix
index 3816df415c6..74682d00d03 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/security/ssss/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/security/ssss/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
       sed -e s@/usr/@$out/@g -i Makefile
       cp ssss.manpage.xml ssss.1
       cp ssss.manpage.xml ssss.1.html
-      ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
+      mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
       echo -e 'install:\n\tcp ssss-combine ssss-split '"$out"'/bin' >>Makefile
     '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/system/bootchart/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/system/bootchart/default.nix
index 24a1558e901..bb3f9d72e82 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/system/bootchart/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/system/bootchart/default.nix
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/sbin $out/etc
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin $out/etc
     cp script/bootchartd $out/sbin
     cp script/bootchartd.conf $out/etc
     chmod +x $out/sbin/bootchartd
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/system/cron/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/system/cron/default.nix
index 17583f612dc..6132abc0879 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/system/cron/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/system/cron/default.nix
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     echo '#define _PATH_SENDMAIL "${sendmailPath}"' >> pathnames.h
   '';
 
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/bin $out/sbin $out/share/man/man1 $out/share/man/man5 $out/share/man/man8";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/bin $out/sbin $out/share/man/man1 $out/share/man/man5 $out/share/man/man8";
   
   meta = {
     description = "Vixie Cron, a daemon for running commands at specific times";
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/system/dd_rescue/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/system/dd_rescue/default.nix
index b018de88f46..57f9a1a57d5 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/system/dd_rescue/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/system/dd_rescue/default.nix
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ rec {
   fixPaths = a.doPatchShebangs ''$out/bin'';
 
   install_dd_rhelp = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/dd_rescue" "$out/bin"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/dd_rescue" "$out/bin"
     tar xf "${dd_rhelp_src}" -C "$out/share/dd_rescue"
     cp "$out/share/dd_rescue"/dd_rhelp*/dd_rhelp "$out/bin"
   '') ["minInit" "defEnsureDir"];
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/system/gptfdisk/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/system/gptfdisk/default.nix
index 35c510f625c..f82c94c0a72 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/system/gptfdisk/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/system/gptfdisk/default.nix
@@ -11,8 +11,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ libuuid popt icu ncurses ];
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/sbin
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man8
+    mkdir -p $out/sbin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man8
     install -v -m755 gdisk sgdisk fixparts $out/sbin
     install -v -m644 gdisk.8 sgdisk.8 fixparts.8 \
         $out/share/man/man8
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/system/plan9port/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/system/plan9port/builder.sh
index f33dc7227fb..bf5e6eeffa5 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/system/plan9port/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/system/plan9port/builder.sh
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ popd
 
 # Installation
 export PLAN9=$out
-ensureDir $PLAN9
+mkdir -p $PLAN9
 GLOBIGNORE='src:.*'
 cp -R * $PLAN9
 GLOBIGNORE=
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/convertlit/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/text/convertlit/default.nix
index 02654cd8922..05494e54a3e 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/convertlit/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/convertlit/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp clit $out/bin
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/dadadodo/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/text/dadadodo/default.nix
index 3beb47b0696..1485bbcd467 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/dadadodo/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/dadadodo/default.nix
@@ -21,7 +21,7 @@ rec {
   installFlags = "PREFIX=$out";
 
   doDeploy = a.fullDepEntry (''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp dadadodo $out/bin
   '') [ "minInit" "doMake" "defEnsureDir"];
       
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/qshowdiff/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/text/qshowdiff/default.nix
index d033cf4ba6f..7c76c7f1bca 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/qshowdiff/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/qshowdiff/default.nix
@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
   buildInputs = [ qt4 perl ];
 
   configurePhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/{bin,man/man1}
+    mkdir -p $out/{bin,man/man1}
     makeFlags="PREFIX=$out"
   '';
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/replace/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/text/replace/default.nix
index 01e58146ed8..72dbdbf647f 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/replace/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/replace/default.nix
@@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
     makeFlags = "TREE=\$(out) MANTREE=\$(TREE)/share/man CC=${stdenv.cross.config}-gcc";
   };
 
-  preInstall = "ensureDir \$out/share/man";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p \$out/share/man";
   postInstall = "mv \$out/bin/replace \$out/bin/replace-literal";
 
   patches = [./malloc.patch];
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/jing/script-builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/jing/script-builder.sh
index 0a7cdc5b8a8..d9cc8849276 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/jing/script-builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/jing/script-builder.sh
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 cat >> $out/bin/jing <<EOF
 #! $SHELL
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/rxp/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/rxp/default.nix
index 3ec035c105e..ee66cf92377 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/rxp/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/rxp/default.nix
@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   NIX_CFLAGS_COMPILE = "-D_GNU_SOURCE";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
     cp rxp $out/bin
   '';
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/trang/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/trang/builder.sh
index 9ae7f7bfe92..9fe712360ba 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/text/xml/trang/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/text/xml/trang/builder.sh
@@ -1,10 +1,10 @@
 source $stdenv/setup
 
-ensureDir $out/jars
+mkdir -p $out/jars
 unzip -j $src '*/trang.jar'
 cp -p *.jar $out/jars
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 
 cat >> $out/bin/trang <<EOF
 #! $SHELL
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/asciidoc/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/asciidoc/default.nix
index 31c57850285..a4b9d375bce 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/asciidoc/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/asciidoc/default.nix
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation rec {
     sed -i -e "s,/etc/vim,,g" Makefile.in
   '';
 
-  preInstall = "ensureDir $out/etc/vim";
+  preInstall = "mkdir -p $out/etc/vim";
 
   buildInputs = [ python ];
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/halibut/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/halibut/default.nix
index 68c09f86e11..5a2c5fb2e06 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/halibut/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/halibut/default.nix
@@ -16,8 +16,8 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   '';
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin
-    ensureDir $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin
+    mkdir -p $out/share/man/man1
     pushd doc
     make halibut.1
     popd
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/lhs2tex/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/lhs2tex/default.nix
index 61e1dfb9d87..a78feaadb18 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/lhs2tex/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/lhs2tex/default.nix
@@ -8,9 +8,9 @@ cabal.mkDerivation (self: {
   extraBuildInputs = [regexCompat texLive];
 
   postInstall = ''
-    ensureDir "$out/share/doc/$name"
+    mkdir -p "$out/share/doc/$name"
     cp doc/Guide2.pdf $out/share/doc/$name
-    ensureDir "$out/nix-support"
+    mkdir -p "$out/nix-support"
   '';
 
   meta = {
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdfjam/builder.sh b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdfjam/builder.sh
index a710bc12023..9fcb80f6866 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdfjam/builder.sh
+++ b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdfjam/builder.sh
@@ -2,8 +2,8 @@ source $stdenv/setup
 
 tar zxvf $src
 
-ensureDir $out/bin
+mkdir -p $out/bin
 cp pdfjam/scripts/* $out/bin
 
-ensureDir $out/man/man1
+mkdir -p $out/man/man1
 cp pdfjam/man1/* $out/man/man1
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdftk/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdftk/default.nix
index 3a6c934928d..28a43e69598 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdftk/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/typesetting/pdftk/default.nix
@@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
   preBuild = "cd pdftk";
 
   installPhase = ''
-    ensureDir $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
+    mkdir -p $out/bin $out/share/man/man1
     cp pdftk $out/bin
     cp ../debian/pdftk.1 $out/share/man/man1
   '';
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-ami-tools/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-ami-tools/default.nix
index f6f32a7c5b7..d582609478b 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-ami-tools/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-ami-tools/default.nix
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       mv * $out
       rm $out/*.txt
 
diff --git a/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-api-tools/default.nix b/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-api-tools/default.nix
index d79afe7e90f..73b65a7e0fc 100644
--- a/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-api-tools/default.nix
+++ b/pkgs/tools/virtualization/amazon-ec2-api-tools/default.nix
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ stdenv.mkDerivation {
 
   installPhase =
     ''
-      ensureDir $out
+      mkdir -p $out
       mv * $out
       rm $out/bin/*.cmd # Windows stuff
 
diff --git a/pkgs/top-level/all-packages.nix b/pkgs/top-level/all-packages.nix
index a74ed18fd4c..fc6424ae60d 100644
--- a/pkgs/top-level/all-packages.nix
+++ b/pkgs/top-level/all-packages.nix
@@ -3554,11 +3554,11 @@ let
           glibc32 = (import ./all-packages.nix {system = "i686-linux";}).glibc;
         }
         ''
-          ensureDir $out
+          mkdir -p $out
           ln -s $glibc64/* $out/
 
           rm $out/lib $out/lib64
-          ensureDir $out/lib
+          mkdir -p $out/lib
           ln -s $glibc64/lib/* $out/lib
           ln -s $glibc32/lib $out/lib/32
           ln -s lib $out/lib64
diff --git a/pkgs/top-level/make-tarball.nix b/pkgs/top-level/make-tarball.nix
index fb9c772d9ac..fad3993ddc1 100644
--- a/pkgs/top-level/make-tarball.nix
+++ b/pkgs/top-level/make-tarball.nix
@@ -66,18 +66,18 @@ releaseTools.makeSourceTarball {
   distPhase = ''
     find . -name "\.svn" -exec rm -rvf {} \; -prune
   
-    ensureDir $out/tarballs
+    mkdir -p $out/tarballs
     mkdir ../$releaseName
     cp -prd . ../$releaseName
     (cd .. && tar cfa $out/tarballs/$releaseName.tar.bz2 $releaseName) || false
     (cd .. && tar cfa $out/tarballs/$releaseName.tar.lzma $releaseName) || false
 
-    ensureDir $out/release-notes
+    mkdir -p $out/release-notes
     cp doc/NEWS.html $out/release-notes/index.html
     cp doc/style.css $out/release-notes/
     echo "doc release-notes $out/release-notes" >> $out/nix-support/hydra-build-products
 
-    ensureDir $out/manual
+    mkdir -p $out/manual
     cp doc/manual.html $out/manual/index.html
     cp doc/style.css $out/manual/
     echo "doc manual $out/manual" >> $out/nix-support/hydra-build-products
diff --git a/pkgs/top-level/python-packages.nix b/pkgs/top-level/python-packages.nix
index d9cc483ef3a..5e8cf9553d9 100644
--- a/pkgs/top-level/python-packages.nix
+++ b/pkgs/top-level/python-packages.nix
@@ -1035,7 +1035,7 @@ let pythonPackages = python.modules // rec {
 
     installCommand = ''
       dest=$(toPythonPath $out)/optfunc
-      ensureDir $dest
+      mkdir -p $dest
       cp * $dest/
     '';
 
@@ -1543,10 +1543,10 @@ let pythonPackages = python.modules // rec {
 
     installPhase = ''
       dest=$(toPythonPath $out)/pysvn
-      ensureDir $dest
+      mkdir -p $dest
       cp pysvn/__init__.py $dest/
       cp pysvn/_pysvn*.so $dest/
-      ensureDir $out/share/doc
+      mkdir -p $out/share/doc
       mv -v ../Docs $out/share/doc/pysvn-1.7.2
       rm -v $out/share/doc/pysvn-1.7.2/generate_cpp_docs_from_html_docs.py
     '';